(Originally 2013. Edited 1/1/15) for Sunday 1/4/15
Mark 10:17-31“20/20 Kingdom Focused Vision”
As we come to the close of another year we enter the beginning of another. With a new year we have opportunity. We can look back at what we accomplished in the past 365 days. Looking back is ok, but looking back should never be to the end result being fixed in past accomplishment nor frozen in failure. We as believers serve the All Powerful God of Creation! We serve a God who extends grace to those who repent.
As we look forward to a new year let us do as Paul the Apostle who pressed toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus (Phil. 3:14).
Our calling of God in Christ Jesus is unto the Kingdom of God and for the Kingdom of God until we enter into the perfect Kingdom of God and see Jesus face to face. Our text deals with THE KINGDOM OF GOD!
Read Luke chapter’s 14, 15, 16 and you will discern the topic to be The Kingdom of God.

In this new year Christians can and should be Kingdom focused and faithful to the Kingdom to which we belong. How preacher?
First be faithful to Gods Kingdom Purpose.

I. Faithful to Gods Kingdom Purpose!
Vs.21-23
Jesus came to seek and save the lost. He commissioned the Church to spread the Gospel to the ends of the earth until the end of the age.
Our purpose is not building buildings, not saving money, not spending money, not gaining political favor, not creating a fun hang out, or anything else that doesn’t spread the Gospel. We are building a Kingdom with Jesus Christ and that is the purpose we MUST be faithful to. If our programs do not seek to fulfill this purpose we should replace them with programs that will keep us faithful to our Lord’s Kingdom Purpose. How does your activities fulfill Gods Kingdom purpose?
A) Examine your ways.
Have you examined your ways? Do you do things on purpose or do you fly by the wind direction being pulled and pushed by your surrounding circumstances? If you are truly Kingdom minded toward Gods Kingdom doing things on purpose should become priority.
B) Evaluate your progress.
Have you evaluated your daily activities?
Examination should always lead to evaluation. Examination presents facts but it never compares to possibilities overlooked. You may have had countless opportunities to share the Gospel last year but overlooked those opportunities. Examination will filter the results of evaluation and give options for moving forward on purpose.
On Purpose with Kingdom Purpose is how I want to live every day. When we are on Purpose we will naturally consider the second step that always follows the first.
Second, we should be faithful to Gods Kingdom People.

II. Faithful to God’s Kingdom People
Vs. 30
You may be at odds with biological family and world acquaintances when you are truly focused on Gods Kingdom Purpose. Jesus made plain the possibility of losing biological family members due to Kingdom Focus. Listen to Jesus from Matthew 10:35 For I am come to set a man at variance against his father, and the daughter against her mother, and the daughter in law against her mother in law.
Your faithfulness to your Faith and Faith Family will put you at odds with those who are not focused on the same Kingdom you are. Don’t lose heart over it. You have a family that is fitly framed together for eternity. You should be able to count on your fellow Christians for your legitimate needs. Paul calked the Church the body fitly framed together. We cannot be focused on things of this world and be fitly framed in the Kingdom family.
No man or woman can be married and still dating others without loading his/her family with paralyzing burdens. If a man is dating while his wife tries to raise children you can be sure the consequences are not good. If a woman dates while a husband is busy with taking car of the cars, the lawn, the house and other necessities who will be nurturing the children.
Although Hollywood and Washington would like to rewrite the definition of a family God designed family with specific purpose for His Kingdom, and the Church is no different. We are here as the Church to take the Gospel to all the world and we can do it efficiently only when the Kingdom Family is faithful to one another.
Your attendance matters!
Your tithe matters!
Your service matters!
Your prayers matter!
Your handshake matters!
Your singing matters!
Your amens matter!
When we are faithful to Gods family we are already taking steps toward the third reality of Kingdom minded people by being faithful to Gods Kingdom Principles.

III. Faithful to God’s Kingdom Principles
Vs.17-19
Luke is the Gospel writer that is not a Jew. However he obviously understood what Jews should be doing. But they were not doing what they should. The modern Church is suffering because most lost people know what the Church should be doing and what we should not be doing. And the lost know we are not following the principles of God. We amen the principles when they are preached but fail to live by them in daily living too often.
Many church leaders and members have stopped having expectations of members. If Jesus gave commands to believers, and He did, we should expect our “family” to be at least trying to live by God’s Kingdom Principles. All families have some kind of governing principles whether stated or not. Even families that seem evil have some guideline they go by. The Muslim follows the Karan, the Buddhist family follows the teachings of Buddha, the Atheist follows a no religion guideline along with laws of the land. Everyone has a moral code even if it is hard to discern, and the family is expected to operate within that code of ethics.
The Christian is called to “follow Jesus!” We will never imitate Jesus, but we can follow Him. We should do what He teaches in Scripture. We are the Chosen to live by principles of a Kingdom that is yet to be fully seen.
Evaluate! Examine! How dies it look?
How will you improve your Kingdom vision in the days ahead?

Now the sermon title today is tricky. It’s what the English teacher used to call an oxymoron. On the surface it sounds like a contradiction. Can you see faith? Is there tangible evidence of faith? Hebrews 11:1 gives us the Bible definition of faith. Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. Paul said in II Cor5:7 For we walk by faith not by sight. But I’m prepared to talk to you today about seeing faith observing faith. What does faith look like? There’s faith all around us but it’s not always easy to see. The Bible says Jesus saw their faith. I’ve told you before what faith does. Faith sees the invisible faith believes the impossible faith receives the incredible faith moves the unmovable faith proves the un-provable. Ok preacher we hear a lot about faith. But faith is the unseen world. Faith = believing God. Faith is trust in God but really what’s the big deal about faith? Everything we have from God is by way of faith. Think about it spiritually everything you have from God you received it through faith. Salvation and eternal life is through faith. Eph2:8 For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves it’s the gift of God. You become a Christian through faith. How are you justified and made right in the eyes of God? It comes through faith. My 1st sermon was about justification by faith. When your loved one is in the hospital and you pray for their recovery, James says the prayer of faith shall save the sick. Think about it faith itself comes from God. God gives us the measure of faith we need to believe. People say all you need is a little faith. The Bible never says that. In fact Jesus gave rebuke when He said O ye of little faith. The Bible says if we have faith as a grain of mustard seed we can tell the mountain to get out of our way. A mustard seed is very small. It’s tiny. But it’s a seed. A seed is planted in good soil and it grows and develops. That’s the idea there. Our faith grows and gets bigger. The only way we can get to God is through faith. God will only accept faith. Listen to Heb11:6 But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him. What is faith? I’ve told you a 1,000 x’s let me tell you again. Remember faith in the acrostic “Forsaking All I Trust Him.” So if faith is the way we get to God if faith is the way we’re saved if faith is the way we go to heaven if faith is the only way we can please God don’t you think we ought to know all we can about faith? Don’t you think we should study faith? Don’t you think we should be men and women of faith? Don’t you think we should learn all we can about faith? And let me be honest I’m still learning. I haven’t learned all about faith yet. So I want to talk about faith. Here’s my thought; what does faith look like? How can you recognize faith? In our passage the Bible says Jesus saw their faith. What was it that Jesus saw? What is the context of Mark Ch2? Let me tell the story. Real quickly I want to make 3 observations. It’s right here. When Jesus saw their faith what did He see? #1

I. Faith Listens Up V1 Capernaum listened up. Word will get out when Jesus is in the house. A. Jesus Preached B. Jesus Preached the Word C Jesus was anointed to preach (Luke Ch4) V2 says Jesus preached the Word unto them. 1. Jesus was in the house preaching Rom10:17 So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God . Jesus said He that hath ears to hear, let him hear. (Faith listens up). 2. How do we get faith? The Word of God 3. How do we receive faith? The Word of God 4. Where does faith come from? The Word of God Commentary: The people in Capernaum went to the house. You could say it this way they went to house of God. David said in Ps122:1 I was glad when they said unto me let us go into the house of the Lord. Luke4:16 Jesus went to the synagogue Jesus went to the house of God as was His custom. It was customary for Jesus to go to church. Heb10:25 not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together as the manner of some is. It was noised that Jesus was in the house and many were gathered. It was a full house. What happened when they got there? They heard the Word of God at the house of God. The Word preached the Word!

II. Faith Lifts Up (Verse 3) A. 4 men carry 1 man. 1. They lifted him up to let him down to Jesus a. The 1 had palsy. Commentary: Now what is palsy? Palsy is paralysis. This man was paralyzed probably from the waist down. He was a paralytic he couldn’t walk. He depended on others to pick him up and take him where he needed to go. There may be someone here today and you’ve been spiritually paralyzed. You don’t move with God like you used to. You don’t walk by faith like you used to. You’ve been crippled by fear. Fear is the opposite of faith. Fear and faith cannot exist together. You either live in fear or live in faith. This palsied man had a physical infirmity and a spiritual infirmity. He had a sickness of sin. He was an unbeliever. He had never placed his faith in Jesus. But there were 4 men who had a concern for this man. 2. The 4 had compassion – They understood Jesus is this man’s only hope

Commentary: Somebody said God will make a way when there seems to be no way. People said there’s no hope. Maybe the man himself said what’s the point what’s the use? I’m an old cripple. I guess I’ll just sit here and waste away and die. That’s the opposite of faith. I’m talking today about what faith looks like. Let me tell you what faith does not look like. I’ll never make it. Why even bother? No one believes in me. I’m sick and tired I’m down and out. I’m down for the count. I’ll never get up again. I have no promise of a better day. I have no hope for tomorrow. But 4 men believed in a man named Jesus. Their faith was not in faith. Their faith was in Jesus. Their faith was not in psychology or sociology. Their faith was in theology. Their faith was not in a doctor. Their faith was in the Great Physician. Isaiah said with His stripes we are healed.

Commentary: Growing up in the church I used to hear an old hymn that said have faith in God have faith in God. We don’t have faith in faith. We have faith in Jesus. Jesus saw their faith. When Jesus saw their faith He said unto the sick of the palsy Son thy sins be forgiven thee. What does that mean? Let me give you my interpretation. The cripple man got saved. Preacher how can I get saved today? Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and thou shalt be saved. Before there was ever a physical miracle there was a spiritual miracle. In His mercy Jesus is not done. Jesus said arise and take up thy bed. Take a leap of faith. Faith leaps up. Jesus said arise and you know what he did? He arose.

3. People were amazed a. They were amazed and glorified God, saying, we never saw it on this fashion. b. They were amazed because they saw faith.

Most have heard it. Many can quote it. After a in-depth look at John 3:16 most will conclude we don’t really know all that it means. Why? because we look from our human (fallen) perspective. Therefore we do not define love the same as God. Let’s look at John 3:16.

For = Because
Because the world was condemned.
Because God will be glorified.

God = Jehovah
His heart – this love is from the heart of the sinless One.

So Loved = His love is pure, perfect, and powerful
He does not love with sin’s motive. He does not love for self promotion. His love cannot be broken. His love is never a mistaken lust.

HeGave = His love cost Him
Paid with His Son.
His love was initiating. He loved first!

Whosoever believes in Him should not perish = His purpose is to bring glory to Himself as God through Christs’ virgin birth, sinless life, vicarious death, and all-powerful resurrection.

I. Immeasurable love
• We generally love as a result of things done for us or because of things given to us.
• God loved us while we were still sinners. Even before the foundation of the world was laid Jesus was planned to die for our sins.
• He forgives our sins as far as the east is from the west.
THAT US IMMEASURABLE

II. Immutable Love
• Eternal life – nothing else has to be said. Eternal is forever and never ends

III. Indescribable
• I have set out to do what can never be properly accomplished.
• God says our sins make us His enemy. Yet He sent His own Son to die for us.
• We could talk of God’s love for eternity and not exhaust its depth, it’s drawing power, or it’ sacrificial measure.

Closing remarks;
John 3:16 is the kind of love that sends missionaries into foreign and often hostile territory.

John 3:16 is the kind of love that leads us to forgive those who despitefully use us

John 3:16 is the kind of love that propels us into praying for our enemies

God’s amazing love is beyond human comprehension.

This is a sermon that has received more feedback than any other I preach in revival services. The above is only a brief outline and shadow of what God has put in my heart by His Word. Should you desire I am always thankful for opportunities to preach God’s Word where I am invited. If God burdens you to lead your church into a greater love that can only come from God I am open to preach this message in its entirety upon request.

To justify, vindicate, declare righteous, to put someone in a proper relationship with another

Note: In propitiation justice goes up to God’s court on our behalf. In justification love comes down from God’s court through Christ on our behalf.

Introduction:

In Exodus 12 we are introduced to the concept of a “Passover”. What is a “Passover”? It is exactly what it sounds like. It is a passing over some in particular actions. In Exodus 12 we find the Children of Israel in Egypt under the heavy hand of a Pharaoh. Moses has been seeking the deliverance of his kinsmen from Egypt. Pharaoh and his people are perplexed with plagues issued by God. A final plague will break his will. Every first born in Egypt is to die as a final plague. God commands Moses and the Israelites to sacrifice an animal and put its blood on the doorpost of each family dwelling. When the judgment of God is poured out in Egypt He will Passover the home with blood on the doorpost. While the Egyptians mourned the loss of their firstborn children and livestock Israel escapes.

Israel has since celebrated that memorable night with what is known as the Passover. That Passover was memorable. What it was not is final. Each year animals were to be killed as a substitute for the sins of the people. It had to happen each year because it was not final. The lamb to be killed was to be spotless. This was known as sacrifice. Two things that cannot be separated in Scripture are Passover and Sacrifice. For Passover to take place a sacrifice is required as a substitute. God’s justice must be issued by death. Death is a result of sin. “By one man sin entered the world and by one man’s sin death passed upon all men.”(Romans 5:12).

When Passover was celebrated each year the lamb was to be killed at a specific time, presented at a specific time and the meat was to be eaten at a specific time. In Matthew 26:26 we find Jesus eating the Passover Meal with the disciples. This will be the final Passover Meal that is effective. Why? Jesus instituted a new meal by eating the final Passover Meal. Jesus instituted the Lord’s Supper. How? By becoming the FULL and FINAL SUBSTITUTE! He not only provided the substitute, He is the substitute.

Christ

I. Spotless Lamb

His birth – was not born by sin or from sin. He was born of a virgin conceived by the Holy Spirit.

His life – fulfilled the law perfectly and also explained it to unwise religious leaders who rejected Him and His teaching.

His death – Christ died at the perfect time as the sacrificial lamb. He died when the Passover lambs were to be slain. Also, His blood was spilled all over the city as a result of brutal beatings. Even in death He was perfect by the law.

Because He is sinless He is the perfect Lamb.

II. Sacrificial Lamb

His willingness – In the Garden of Gethsemane He said to the Father “not my will but thine be done”

i. Lambs had no choice in the matter of sacrifice, Jesus did. He could have called legions of angels to rescue Him from the hands of His enemies and from the cross. But instead He willingly laid down His life.

ii. Lambs were killed at the hand of men. Jesus didn’t die until He Himself gave up the ghost. He had to choose to accept the beatings and He had to choose to close His eyes in death because death had no hold on Him.

Because He chose to die He is the perfect sacrifice.

III. Substitution Lamb

He hung as a sinless innocent man on the cross prepared by man for a criminal. This was symbolic in the fact He hung there for all sinners that come to Him by faith.

He suffered the wrath of God we deserve.

He took our place under the righteous judgment of God.

IV. Satisfying Lamb

He satisfied the wrath of God toward sin. No other sacrifice is sufficient. Jesus is the final sacrifice. No other sacrifice is necessary because God’s wrath is satisfied in Christ and His substitution, sacrificial, and spotless life, death and resurrection.

Can you imagine being Joseph? On the surface that might sound fascinating. Underneath the surface there are emotions we usually overlook when we read Matthew 1. Verse 19 stands out when we read this passage. It says, “Then Joseph her husband, being a just man, and not willing to make her a public example, was minded to put her away privitely.”
A JUST MAN!
By what standard?
{If I told you I am 7 feet tall would you believe me? If you know me the answer is no. If I insist I am 7 feet tall how do you prove i’m not? There is a measuring standard to go by}
When God says someone is just He is going by a standard. That standard is His Word. Joseph was a just man because he knew what God’s commands were and he obviously attempted to keep them.
How can we come to that conclusion? The answer is in the text. But, to see the answer you must look at this event of Mary’s pregnancy through the eyes of Joseph according to the standard of God’s Word.
Let’s do that together now….

How do we determine from the text Joseph was a JUST MAN according to God’s standard?

1. Joseph was a Faithful Man
A. Faithful to the Law of God
Here it is very important to remember Joseph had not heard from the angel of the Lord when he first got the news Mary was with Child. Therefore, what should the natural thought be? Well, there is only one biological way for a woman to be with Child! Joseph would have no other option but to believe Mary had sinned. Our text makes it plain, Joseph and Mary had not yet been together in that way.
If Joseph is going to be faithful to God’s Word He is now faced with taking corrective measures toward Mary. He has no choice.

2. Joseph was Forgiving
A. By the Law Mary could have been taken out publicly and stoned to death.
{remember he would be assuming she had sinned until he hears from the angel of the Lord}
Joseph was forgiving and did not want to make an example of Mary therefore he wanted to put her away privately.

3. Joseph was Fruitful with God’s Word
A. When he was informed he acted.
The Law said he needed to act, he did.
The angel of Lord appeared to Joseph and told Him what God was doing. Mary was not in adulterous sin. She was carrying the Messiah and was still a virgin.
Joseph heard from God and did what God said.

Application:
Many today say they need a word from God. Let me remind you we have THE WORD OF GOD FROM GOD! The problem is not a lack of information. We lack application.
When we read the Scriptures we need to do what they say. When the Scriptures make our sin known to us we should repent.
Many today read the Scriptures with someone else in mind. You read about sin and assume someone else fits the bill. The Word of God is like a mirror according to James. The Word tells us who we are. We should read the Bible expecting God to convict us while appreciating the Grace He offers through Jesus Christ.
All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.

Hear the WORD OF GOD and do something about it

Some of the supporting Scriptures are not included because I want you to study this for yourself.

Easter has become a celebration of many things. Some celebrate the birth of spring. Others believe we are paying homage to the fertility “gods”. Many are simply glad to get a little time off work and eat chocolate or little tasty sugar chickens. Sadly a growing number of people have no idea what Easter is really all about.

Jesus Christ who was born of a virgin lived without sin (the only person to do this) and is the son of God. He was crucified on a cross. On one hand He was killed for His claims to the Kingdom of Heaven. On the other hand He was killed because He took on the sins of His people. His people are those who trust in His redemptive work accomplished on the cross and that which followed. You see man thought killing Jesus was to stop a blasphemer, but the truth is He was born to die. Man really couldn’t stop the murder of Christ if he wanted to. Jesus died as the only righteous one in the place of sinners. He paid the penalty for sin. He accepted the wrath of a Holy God. God’s wrath is poured out on sin and Christ took that sin (mine and others) on himself on Calvary’s Hill hanging on the cross. What happened next is the miracle we celebrate during the Easter season.

Jesus Christ gave up the ghost (died). He was taken down from the cross and laid in a borrowed tomb (grave). A great stone was rolled in front of the entry way of the tomb. At the end of three days and nights some of His followers came to anoint His body, but…. His body was not there. Angels asked the ones who were present “why seek ye the living among the dead?” Jesus was alive! Yes, He was raised from the dead! This man had given up the ghost and now had taken His life back up. He has power not only over life but also over death. He is Lord! Easter is a celebration of the Resurrection of Jesus Christ!

John 3:1-21

I. A Call to Hope in Him

Our hope is in Christ

i. He is eternal life

He is our hope for eternal life

He is the reunion maker for believers in Heaven

II. A Call to His Help

Our Lord is with us always (said AFTER resurrection)

i. He is our comforter in all circumstances/good and bad

ii. He is our keeper and conviction (evidenced in John 17; Passion Prayer)

He empowers us against sin

He keeps us in spite of sin/He is faithful to forgive us when we ask

III. A Call to Holiness through Him see vs. 19&20 (Also evident in the words; “woman behold thy son”)

He gives His People understanding

His own submit to His directing see vs. 21

IV. A Call to Hold to Truth as His

Our witness is to Him not to ourselves – it is not only for Christ, but actually to Him. That is why Paul said, “do all things as unto the Lord”.

At this time of year it is helpful to church members if pastors and teachers provide Scripture verses detailing the last week in the life of Christ leading to His death, burial, and resurrection. Reading these accounts also provide the pastor/teacher with necessary focus when preparing to preach/teach during the Easter season. Below are helpful references in preparing to celebrate Resurrection Day.

Easter has become a celebration of many things. Some celebrate the birth of spring. Others believe we are paying homage to the fertility “gods”. Many are simply glad to get a little time off work and eat chocolate or little tasty sugar chickens. Sadly a growing number of people have no idea what Easter is really all about.

Jesus Christ who was born of a virgin lived without sin (the only person to do this) and is the son of God. He was crucified on a cross. On one hand He was killed for His claims to the Kingdom of Heaven. On the other hand He was killed because He took on the sins of His people. His people are those who trust in His redemptive work accomplished on the cross and that which followed. You see man thought killing Jesus was to stop a blasphemer, but the truth is He was born to die. Man really couldn’t stop the murder of Christ if he wanted to. Jesus died as the only righteous one in the place of sinners. He paid the penalty for sin. He accepted the wrath of a Holy God. God’s wrath is poured out on sin and Christ took that sin (mine and others) on himself on Calvary’s Hill hanging on the cross. What happened next is the miracle we celebrate during the Easter season.

Jesus Christ gave up the ghost (died). He was taken down from the cross and laid in a borrowed tomb (grave). A great stone was rolled in front of the entry way of the tomb. At the end of three days and nights some of His followers came to anoint His body, but…. His body was not there. Angels asked the ones who were present “why seek ye the living among the dead?” Jesus was alive! Yes, He was raised from the dead! This man had given up the ghost and now had taken His life back up. He has power not only over life but also over death. He is Lord!

Phone rings. A child’s voice is on the other end. You ask for Mr. or Mrs. someone and the child voice replies, “they said to tell you they are not here.”

Walk into a home and sit down. Begin talking with the family. After asking how everyone is and how is life you get the usual fine and good. Almost immediately after that answer the child of the home comes in asking if dad will be sleeping on the couch again. Next comes the question, “where is the beer you just had dad?”

Walk through the grocery store. See someone of a different nationality or skin color. Your small son or daughter calls out a derogative name or title for that person. Naturally you know they picked up such things from someone at home, but you respond by saying “I don’t know where you learned that!” Then the child reminds you of the origin. It’s you.

Children are brutally honest. They don’t know how brutal there honesty is but it still cuts to the bone. Children are more than honest. They are open. Do you know of a small child that will refuse to tell you of their injuries “boo boo’s”. Not only will they inform you many of them make it know with a screeching scream followed by tears. They run to you for attention, comfort and care. For some reason adults seem to retreat and hide when we experience hurts. We do so for a matter of pride. We want to appear strong. Really we are weak.

We can learn so much from children. Christ tells His followers they must be like children. The scriptures refer to God’s People as Children on a regular basis. The Old Testament calls the people Children of Israel. The New Testament refers to believers as adopted children, little children and children of light. A clear look at children will teach us how God blesses us when we become like children.

Let’s note in or text taxes have just been paid. Tax season always brings a longing for Heaven for believers. It is also a time when many church goers feel a sense of conceit toward the tax collectors. Most in the church agree with the conceit. It is certainly not looked at as sin. I ask you by way of introduction today, how does Christ see our conceit?

I. Children are Honest

Truth comes out without hesitation

Christians have a Truth worth telling – Jesus is Lord and saves sinners

Above all we should learn to be honest with God. A lifelong study of the scriptures will teach us who we really are and promote honesty from us toward God.

II. Children are Open

Willingness to admit weakness, pain and/or hurt

Pride doesn’t seem to slow small children/ Pictures a brokenness of heart

Above all we should learn to be open with God concerning our sin. We become willing to live a transparent live after we become open with God about our own lives.

III. Children Own nothing

There is no attachment to place or thing

Could lead to mission field with no hesitation

We must realize we own nothing. This world is not our home. We are passing through. Everything we are blessed to posses is a gift given to us for use in Christian service to God and fellow man.

IV. Children Owe nothing

Remember life before bills?

The debt is paid by the parents

Christ has paid our debt on Calvary

Our lives belong to God. We owe no man anything but to love them. Love as Christ loves. While we were still sinners Christ died for us.

Closing;

Our text today is dealing with the Kingdom of God. Who is greatest in it? Christ is teaching the disciples to humble themselves before God in service.

Epistle = intended to be published (to be read by the original recipient and others)

Corinth

Standard Worship – Aphrodite, the goddess of love

Morality in Corinth – 1000 priestesses, who were religious prostitutes, lived and worked there and came down into the city in the evening to offer their services to male citizens and foreign visitors. Chapter 6 lists many of the specific sins of the Corinthian people.

The Church at Corinth – ! Many in the church still practiced the above sins. Squabbles were all in the church accompanied by rivalries.

Vs. 1 – Paul established his authority. He reminds them of the Devine Appointment by Christ. Paul is operating on the call and command of God

How wonderful it would be if people in the church today

would act on the Word of God and not feelings

take serious the call of God the way Paul did

If I could have one prayer answered for our church it would be for us to accept the Great Commission and to carry it out as our reason for existing.

We would not weight ourselves down with the thoughts of the world – lust of the flesh, lust of the eyes and the pride of life.

We would not weight ourselves down with the competitive nature of human desire

Vs. 1 – Sosthenes – In Acts 18 Sosthenes was a leader in the Jewish synagogue and tried a case for the Jews against Paul. We learn hear the power of the Gospel. Sosthenes had been saved and now worked with Paul.

In our text we see the physical walls. Scripture teaches us a lot about walls. Walls are built to be protective barriers against the things we don’t want in and to keep in those things we don’t want to get out. In Isaiah 5 God speaks of the hedge around His Vineyard Israel. For the New Testament believer we have walls to protect us;

Family:

Marriage – the wall that keeps us faithful, seeking the welfare of our spouse, providing for the physical needs of our spouse, caring for and nurturing our spouse. This same wall is to protect us and keep us from allowing another to take our attention. It belongs to the one you are in covenant with.

Parenthood – the wall that keeps our children under our authority and care. Children are the RESPONSIBILITY of parents.

Church:

Leaders – The wall that keeps the church grounded in Truth. Those who are to pray for the church and teach sound doctrine

God’s Word – The wall for all to appreciate and stay behind. Keeps all believers from doing those things that displease God. The Word is the wall for the preacher and teacher.

Today we are looking at Old Testament passages. These are dealing specifically with Israel. However, we can learn many New Testament truths uttered toward the Church by reviewing what God has said and accomplished with His Covenant People Israel.

Setting:

Judah had enjoyed 52 years of prosperity under the reign of King Uzziah. During this time Judah became strong in commerce and military strength. They also built walls, towers and modern weaponry. Uzziah made war with Judah’s enemies and built cities in surrounding lands. God indeed helped Uzziah and the people of Judah. Uzziah became proud of “his” accomplishments. He began to overlook the source of power, authority and truth. As a result of Uzziah’s pride Judah became immoral People. Because of Uzziah’s turning from God he and the people would be warned, rebuked and judged. Isaiah is the man God chose to proclaim the message.

The People of God were acting in Immoral ways. They had laws to live by, but refused to follow. Specifically King Uzziah failed to remain faithful to the Law. “You and I do the same”

As a result of Uzziah’s sin, namely pride, resulted in Leprosy. He was struck with Leprosy while standing in the Temple. Uzziah attempted to burn incense in the Temple and usurp the duties of the priest’s. He did this with a boastful and prideful heart. He was stopped by the priest’s. They removed him from the Temple. He would be confined to his home until his death.

Uzziah had built a powerful business community and could have enjoyed the benefits, but his sin brought truth to him. God is soveriegn. God is in control. God sees our heart.

When we are filled with sin we allow our walls to be weakened. We must keep ourselves strong by seeking God and His will for our lives. We must keep ourselves strong by relying on His strength. We are strengthened by the Word of God.

Read 2 Kings 25 for a picture of what happens when a city is slowly weakened by sin and takes their eyes off the important things. The enemy will begin camping at the door and eventually break through.

We come today to the House of Worship with all kinds of backgrounds. Oh, we think of one another by the occupation we hold. Another identification mark we use is the family each person walks in with or the friends some spend a lot of time with. The personalities we present at church are also on the mind of those we speak with while here. None of the above is what I am talking about. I am speaking of the hidden secrets in your heart and mind! Some of you are now made nervous by hearing those words. You are very aware of the secrets you keep and you really want to keep them just as they are: secrets. Others here do the same in keeping secrets but are not as aware of the fact they are doing it. The truth is we all do this. We have hidden battles we fight daily because of our old sinful nature. We hide these battles for various reasons. Many of the reasons are very valid in our minds. God is working today through His Word and Spirit to expose your hidden sins that He might give you victory.

Far too often we hide our sins because we feel we are alone in the battle against them. Truthfully we are not. We all fight in the same warfare. It is time we realize that and build strength in numbers rather than shrink back with fear and embarrassment. We have been given gifts through other believers. Each person’s gift in the body of Christ is there for the benefit of all the body and ultimately for the Glory of God! Until we all become honest with ourselves, God and our family we will continue to fight without the help that is waiting.

Another aspect of the sin problem plaguing the Church is the role believers are trying to play. We have our calling. Callings are individual and universal. All callings are for the building up of the family of God. The problem starts when we either refuse to perform our callings and or we try to perform another person’s task. Specifically, many people want to take of God’s role and be the judge of another person before they even look at themselves. Those people never look at fellow sinners through eyes of Grace.

Let us look into God’s Word as looking into a mirror and see where our personal blemishes are without considering the blemishes of our neighbor. Today may God convict each one of us, call us to repentance and cleanse us from our sins as we confess them to Him.

I. Consider the needs of the modern church and its members

Expectations are real and good

i. churches have stopped having expectations of people

Members/Believers should participate in worship

Members/Believers should seek Gods Glory

our worship is His

Our appearance is His = we should no longer dress to attract attention, but to bring glory to God.

Members/Believers should be growing spiritually

Members/Believers should be praying for the church

II. Confess the Sin

Express a broken heart to God

i. Church folk are not broken hearted over the sin the church holds to therefore they never confess sin as sin.

This is a result of a lack of Truth intake = Bible reading. The Truth will show you your sin, bring you to repentance and show you the way forward.

III. Confirm the Power in the Believer

Prove the Holy Spirit in the Believer

i. Just as the Children of Israel proved God in the Exodus out of Egypt we today can prove the Lord in us as we come out of the bondage to sin.

There are a lot of mega churches in the world today. A large number of them are in our homeland. Some of them are not built on a solid foundation of faith in Christ, but some of them are. The ones that flourish in the firm foundation of faith have the same things in common. They first see themselves as sinners in need of God’s Grace. Second they confess those sins. Third, each believer knows Christ in them is working out their salvation and strengthening them against the sins they battle. They also find strength through the gifts Christ gives to each believer in the local body. That is the recipe for a healthy church. Unless we recognize our own sin and follow scriptural guidelines we will never grow beyond our current position. As a matter of fact we will continue decaying. Let every believer allow God to search our heart today and begin the growth of each believer and therefore continuing the growth of this church spiritually and in numbers of new believers.

You have heard the cliché’s such as “one man’s junk is another man’s treasure”. Then there is the one that says “one life ends and another begins”. The one that opens our mind to today’s text is one that rings true in many of life’s situations. It is this, “this victory is both bitter and sweet”. Our Lord drank of a bitter cup that is the sweetest victory for those of us who trust in the Lord Jesus Christ as our redeemer. Not only is it sweet for us it is also bitter in many ways. In Mark 14:23 Christ drank the wine that signified His blood. The disciples then “drank with Him”. That would come to mean so much more than the disciples present at the table that day would realize. It would be later when Stephen the preaching deacon was martyred, Peter and John were imprisoned and countless other angry reactions played out toward Christ’s followers.

What is this cup? Why is it bitter? How is it sweet? How do we partake in the drinking of such a cup?

The cup that Christ would drink would be fully poured out on the Lord as He hung on the Cross of Calvary. He was hanging there not because of sin but for sin. This cup is one we deserve as sinners. You do know that all have sinned and come short of the glory of God? This is true of man. Christ did not sin. He lived a sinless life yet He was received punishment for our sins. Let me remind you it was voluntary. He asked for the cup to pass from Him, “but not as I will but your will be done”.

Let’s examine The Cup of Suffering.

I. A Bitter Cup

God’s Wrath

The cup mentioned is the cup filled with God’s wrath. Sinners deserve God’s wrath. But while we were sinners Christ died for us. Christ accepted the wrath of God on behalf of sinners. When Christ said “my God my God why hast thou forsaken me” He was at that point realizing the full wrath of God.

Let us not forget He accepted things on our behalf.

The Position of Sinner – the cross

The Penalty of Sin – death

By one man sin entered the world and therefore death passed upon all men

The Punishment of Sin – suffering and torment

He was beaten with a cat of nine tails

He was mocked and ridiculed

He descended into the lower parts of the earth/He faced the devil (note He took the keys of death and Hell from him while there)

II. A Sweet Cup

Christ’s Atoning Sacrifice

Christ paid the penalty for our sin. When we come by faith trusting in His sacrifice for us we are saved. Saved from what? Saved from God’s wrath! We escape what we deserve. Oh what marvelous Grace!! Christ has paid it for us and that is why we can enter Heaven with confidence. Not confidence in ourselves but in Christ as our redeemer. He redeemed us, paid for us with His own blood.

Christ’s Victorious Resurrection

It is sweet because though Christ suffered and died He also arose from the dead. Death has no hold on Him because death is a penalty for sin. Christ knew no sin. He only carried our sins on Him. Once our sin debt was paid Death could not hold the King of Kings and Lord of Lords. Christ was placed in a borrowed tomb and on the third day Halleluiah Christ Arose!!!!!

III. A Fearful Cup

A Judgment Cup

All will be judged with the Cup of Suffering in full view. The question will be have you trusted Christ in the Cup He drank for you or have you rejected the Christ who suffered on your behalf.

Make it sure today,

Let the record show in Heaven that your debt is paid. Trust in Christ.

IV. A Shared Cup

Believers drink of the cup at the Lord’s Table. Stephen was stoned to death. Peter and John were imprisoned for the message of Christ. James was killed. Today we are seeing suffering around the world for many who preach the message of Christ. It is sweet to be partakers in Christ and bitter to suffer. But

Jesus tells His disciple to take Mary as his mother and Mary to see the disciple as her son. In our text we have a statement of

Words to note:

Son – a word used to describe one who depends on another

Mother – a mother

Behold – see

To “see” someone as a particular person in the way one would view a mother or child would create emotion, drive and concerns.

To “see” one as mother or child in a scriptural way would bring certain commands to light.

We have before us a statement made by Christ and a response from those whom He gave the statement.

The Statement

Behold (see) One Another as Family

The Response

Obedience to the stated directive

Jesus is hanging on the cross. While in agony He offers compassionate care to His followers.

Issues in the response to note:

The Disciple took Mary to His house.

Jesus did not send Mary to Her earthly home.

Mary is identified here as part of a greater Family, the Family of God.

Jesus did not allow Mary to remain at the cross.

i. He is the Redeemer. Christ alone!

As believers in Christ and followers of His commands we can learn from this text. Christ was well aware of the coming of the New Testament Church!

I. Obligations within the Body of Christ “The Church”

Care for our body (Ephesians 2:19, 5:21)

i. each member is part of the same body

ii. each members decision will affect the rest of the body (see Ephesians 2:21)

II. Owning the Obligations of the Church “Your Family”

Often we see people compartmentalize Christian activity and Church matters. They fail to see the lifelong commitment a family member has. Christian activity cannot and should not be a once or twice a week thing. It must be a lifelong commitment and a way of life for the believer.

Concern yourself with each member

i. watch for signs of hurting

ii. watch for signs of need

iii. watch for mentoring opportunities

Consume the blessings of God

i. get mentored

ii. ask for help from family

iii. go to Bible Study

iv. make needs known

You get the picture

III. Observe Obligations at Work

In Nehemiah all the People of God had obligations in rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem. As each family worked in the area assigned the walls were erected giving protection to Gods People. When we work as we are called we fortify the Church.

From the base of G2476; a standing (properly the act), that is, (by analogy) position (existence); by implication a popular uprising; figuratively controversy: – dissension, insurrection, X standing, uproar.

Modern Parallels:

Churches often dispute

sometimes over petty insignificant things (though they seem important to the advocate)

Churches stop evangelizing when they are in dispute

satan has accomplished his goal through immature Christians with selfish motives

Church denominations have come about because of this kind of dispute that ended with no agreement.

approximately 1000 yrs. passed with no specific denominational divide in the Church

i. First divide was between East and West. E.-Orthodox/W. Catholic (1054)

ii. Second division was in 1517. Martin Luther is said to have posted the 95 Theses on the door of the Castle Church in Wittenberg, Germany, on October 31, 1517. Church doors functioned very much as bulletin boards function on a twenty-first century college campus

The issue of 1054 and 1517 was identical to the issue taken up at the Jerusalem council. Let’s look now at the issue at hand. Let us also remember the issue will be a worthy cause to fight and die for until the end of the earth.

I. A Worthy Argument – The Subject =

How are we saved? The WAY to Heaven

Who Saves?

i. The Pharisee believers thought they could say who is saved

ii. Many clergy today still think they have the power to forgive sins/they are wrong

II. A Willing Body – The Church (believers) willing to have the debate (see verses 2,22,)

Who is willing to argue for Truth?

Who is willing to separate for Truth?

i. The Truth is worth living for. It is worth fighting for and it is worth dying for!

Imagine how Paul felt. He knew the members of this council would go into it with bias. However, he trusted God to work out the details.

III. A Wise Council

Who took part?

i. The Apostles

ii. The Elders

Note: While they travelled to Jerusalem they continued to preach the Gospel.

I stress the word preach here. Why? It indicates the Love of God with boldness of Truth. Too many people today think Christ is a happy go lucky man who tried to do good things. So, we now say “share” the gospel. Well, the word “share” does not do justice to the TRUTH. Preaching the Gospel is powerful when accomplished by a Believer.

Who decides? (see verses 22 & 25)

i. The Apostles, Elders and the whole Church see verse 22.

IV. A Wonderful Conclusion – The Formal Letter declaring Salvation by Grace Through Faith in Christ

As human beings we naturally gravitate toward the easy way of doing things. We also find it easy to follow the path already worn by the multitudes of feet. Too often we don’t look far enough ahead to see where that worn path leads. Easy today is not always best long-term.

From scripture we learn of the two ways. One is wide, broad and heavily traveled. It is popular. It is full of people who believe they can live how they want with no consequences. The broad way is full of people who think all beliefs are ultimately taking us to the same end. Those who take the broad path will one day find that there is only one Lord. Every knee will bow and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord (Romans 14:11, Philippians 2:9-11).

The truth we must hear, understand and follow is the statement made by Jesus Christ. He said, “I am the way, the truth and the life: no man comes to the Father but by me.” Jesus is the narrow way. You cannot find a way to the Father without Christ. He is THE WAY. The Narrow way is hard for people to accept because we are by nature sinful and selfish. We don’t like to admit when we cannot do something. We have to admit we cannot get to the Father without Christ or we want get to Him.

The Narrow way is the way of Christ. The narrow way is only travelled by disciples. Those who wish to decrease in self while Christ increases in us. Following the narrow way may not always be easy, but it does lead to the Glory of God. How beautiful will it be when we see Him face to face as He is.

The Narrow Way

I. Begins at Faith in Christ

He is Lord

II. Builds on the Word of God

His road map for us

III. Broadcasts the Gospel Message

His saving grace is available to all who come by faith

IV. Bound for Heaven

His eternal purpose is our purpose in all things

His eternal plan is how we make decisions

i. does this or that help or hinder the eternal message

We should note that the narrow way is not determined by man. Many try to tell what the narrow way is, but Christ tells us plainly it is through Him. Our work is not enough. Our love is not enough. Our desires for peace are not enough. It is the pure love of God through the work of Jesus Christ on Calvary and His wish to follow the perfect will of the Father that leads us to the narrow gate, Jesus Christ our redeemer. Want you walk through THIS GATE? Then follow the narrow path that leads to the destination that Christ determines at the gate, not the finish line.

2 Timothy 3: 5 speaks of those who have a form of godliness but deny the power of God. The groups in the crosshairs of Christ’s Truth rifle are the epitome of such people. They claim to do everything right. They claim everyone else should live as they do. They are quick to point out the mistakes of others while conveniently overlooking the mistakes of their own. This is a problem that plagues many Christians today and is the most effective tool the un-churched have in convincing others of the hypocrisy in going to church. Though they are wrong for forsaking the assembly we are pushing them out the door as fast as they try to come in. Why do we do it? And, how are we doing it?

First we must ask the question that sets the pace for all other discussion. Who really draws men and women to church?Next we should ask ourselves some important follow up questions. Who should the un-churched be at church to meet? What should they expect out of us, The Bride of Christ? How are we commanded to interact with lost people and un-churched people?

The Scribes and Pharisees were quick to show others the phylacteries on their arm and head. They could even quote the verses therein. What they couldn’t do is the work of Christ. They couldn’t change the life of another person. As a matter of fact they didn’t want the lives of others to be changed. They were not going to enter Heaven nor did they want anyone else to enter.

One among the Lord’s group happened to be a traitor who would later be revealed. That would be Judas. He would often show signs of his heart. Judas would not have anointed Christ with the expensive ointment Mary used on the head of our Lord. Neither did he want Mary to do it. Too many people don’t want to do the work of God and they will do everything they can to stop others from doing it. The results of such action will be at least undesired and at most eternal punishment.

It is bad enough to not serve God yourself, but to lead others to stumble and/or stop is worse. Doing so brought the issuing of WOES the Scribes and Pharisees.

Jesus began His public ministry with 8 Be-attitudes.

Jesus ends His public ministry with 8 Woes issued to the false teachers.

Jeremiah 23:1 Woe be unto the pastors that destroy and scatter the sheep of my pasture! saith the Lord.

Galatians 1:6-7 I marvel that ye are so soon removed from Him that called you into the grace of Christ unto another gospel: Which is not another; but there are some that trouble you, and would pervert the gospel of Christ.

** Will be present until the end

Revelation: 19:20 And the beast was taken, and with him the false prophet that wrought miracles before him, with which he deceived them that had the mark of the beast ……

II. Powerless People with great power/having a form of godliness but the deny the power thereof

People operating without the Holy Spirit

i. The church must act under the direction of the Holy Ghost or we are not the church

People with format and no lasting results

i. effective on the surface, but creating no newborns into the family of God

People with knowledge and no wisdom

i. They can tell you all about the Bible but never share the scriptures with lost souls local or abroad.

*** These people make note of what they do;

the gifts on the altar/works in the church

the offering they give/but never the kingdom work of Christ

make proselyte for their own gain rather than for the Kingdom of God

III. Passionate People without a Heavenly Cause

The Pharisees would cover land and sea to make a proselyte, but not for Jesus Christ.

Psalm 80:8 you brought a vine out of Egypt, thou hast cast out the heathen and planted it

John 15:5 I am the vine ye are the branches he that abides in me and I in him the same shall bring forth much fruit for without me ye can do nothing

Vineyard – Kingdom of God, Israel

Isaiah 5:1Now will I sing to my well beloved a song of my beloved touching his vineyard. My well beloved hath a vineyard in a very fruitful hill:

Isaiah 5:2 and he fenced it, and gathered out the stones thereof, and planted it with the choicest vine, and built a tower in the midst of it, and also made a winepress therein: and he looked that it should bring forth grapes, and it brought forth wild grapes.

• God planted Israel.

o He chose them and put them where He wanted them.

The Son – The Lord Jesus Christ Son of God – heir of all things

Hebrews 1:2 hath in these last days spoken unto us by [his] Son, whom he hath appointed heir of all things, by whom also he made the worlds;

The Servants – prophets

Hebrews 1:1 God, who at sundry times and in divers manners spoke in time past unto the fathers by the prophets,

Other husbandmen – Gentiles, believers outside Israel

*** Notice; the vineyard is let (loaned) out

I. First Fruit (not to be theologically blasphemous this is not about the tithe in this reference)

a. Reverence to the Father – WORSHIP

Worship is not getting what we want. Worship is giving praise to the Creator of all things.

II. Much Fruit

a. Working for the Landowner, God.

** Real fruit is by God’s hand. It is His vineyard. We must be SERVANTS in the vineyard working for His Harvest

b. His harvest will be souls – are we witnessing for souls?

c. His harvest will be sanctified believers – are we participating in the sanctification of the church?

i. the church should grow in grace through God’s Word

d. His harvest will be a glorified church – a church cleansed by the blood of Christ

i. we will be clean before God because of the work of Christ

** Part of our service in the vineyard is to teach the grace of God and how He will bring us into glory in a glorified status. This will not be by our own works, but through Christ.

III. The Chief Cornerstone

a. He is a Stone of some kind to all

i. Rock of offense = those who do not fall on the stone in the age of grace will have the stone fall on them in judgment.

ii. Rock of Stability and faith = those who fall on the stone and are broken are those who come to Christ by faith and are saved

Closing:

This parable is one with a clear warning. Jesus explains the history leading up to His arrival, and He tells of the coming events leading to judgment.

• But at last He sent His Son – notice the use of the word last. No other must come. Judgment is sure to be next!!!!! Many are still rejecting the Son.

• As the original husbandmen wanted to keep the earth for themselves today’s non-believing crowd will not inherit the earth they worship. God will do away with this sphere in bringing about a new heavens and new earth for His people, those who work in and for His glory.

• Are we prepared for that day when the Landowner returns for harvest?

• Are we warning others that He is coming?

Exodus 22:5 If a man shall cause a field or vineyard to be eaten, and shall put in his beast, and shall feed in another man’s field; of the best of his own field, and of the best of his own vineyard, shall he make restitution.

i. This is God’s field.

ii. We will give Him payment

a. That will either be our faith in Him or His punishment toward unbelievers

WE SHOULD BE AWARE THAT OUR NATION, AS A GENTILE NATION, HAS STOPPED WORKING FOR GOD’S GLORY. OUR NATION IS ASKING FOR JUDGMENT IN DOING SO. IF WE HAVE ANY HOPE OF REMAING THE WEALTHIEST AND MOST BENEVOLENT NAION ON EARTH WE MUST RETURN TO A WORK THAT SEEKS THE GLORY OF GOD WHO GIVES US OUR FREEDOM BY HIS OWN GRACE.

Matthew 20:17-28 continues to build on the fundamental teachings of our Lord concerning power and authority in the Kingdom of Heaven. Obviously the disciples had motives that Christ wasn’t pleased with. They all sought the seat of prominence. Two asked for power. The others were angered, probably because they were not bold enough to ask for the same thing. Christ used this as yet another place to teach how His Kingdom will be in contrast to human understanding and desires.

• Salome = mother of James and John

o she petitions Christ for her sons to have power, thinking the Kingdom would soon be set

• Christ answers Salome = He tells of His coming death

o The disciples obviously missed the message

o The message was the Kingdom would come later. Now Christ must die for the sins of many.

** The disciples expected the Kingdom to be established in their life time.

• Jesus asks some telling questions.

o Can you drink of the “cup” I will drink? / He knows they do not understand.

THE CUP = God’s Wrath upon sin

o Jesus was going to the right hand of the Father to reign, and that meant DEATH!

 Death, Burial, Resurrection

** How do we know they didn’t understand?

** What did Jesus mean by these sayings?

1. Can you drink of the cup I will drink?

2. You will drink of the cup I drink and be baptized with the baptism I am baptized.

a. The Cup – They will suffer

i. James was beheaded = Acts 12

ii. John = exiled to Patmos

b. Baptism – The Holy Spirit will enlighten them and empower them

Can you picture the disciples sitting at fellowship one day and while eating one says, “I got it.” One might ask “Got what?” The amazed disciple would say something like the following.

“Do you remember when Jesus said we would drink of the same cup He did? I just realized He meant we will suffer and die for His sake. We really didn’t know what we asked. He is in Heaven. To sit and rule with Him we have to go to Heaven. To go to Heaven we have to……..hum die.”

(Can you picture the pale face as this becomes clear?)

• The disciples got it later, but not at the time of Christ’s teaching.

• Peter would still deny Christ three times (Matthew 26:70)

• All would forsake Christ (Matthew26:56)

• All the disciples slept while Jesus prayed and His sweat became blood (Matthew 26:40)

I. The Greatest Is a Minister to the Others

Minister = teacher, pastor, run errands, attendant / not exactly what the world thinks of power

a. Minister in the Kingdom does not seek selfish motives.

i. Do you serve the wealthiest, or do you serve all?

b. Are you seeking those to attend to you, or are you looking for ways to attend to others in the church?

II. The Greatest is a Servant

Sense of subjection, bond servant

a. Servant – is under the authority of another

i. IN THE KINGDOM IT IS THE AUTHORITY OF CHRIST

• Jesus said in John 8 He must be about the Fathers business

• Jesus washed the feet of the disciples

• Jesus served bread and wine to the disciples

• Jesus served the filthiest and sickest of mankind in His life on earth

• Jesus faced Satan for us

• Jesus took on the form of a servant and became obedient even unto the death of the cross!

III. Servants Suffer the Will of the Master

a. Christ is our Master

i. He tells us to follow Him

ii. Remember where He went and what He faced, but don’t forget where He is now!!!

b. What are you doing to Minister to others?

i. The Church needs to get busy getting understanding and teaching what we understand

ii. The Church needs to be vigilant in seeking out those who have need.

c. How are you serving?

i. Time to stop looking for someone to serve you!!

1. You will always be mad if you are waiting. If someone does serve you it is not likely you will know what it looks like.

Jesus made clear that authority requires service. Kingdom authority is not simply passing judgment and giving orders, but is carrying out the orders of God the Father to honor the Son.

Go and Sell / A call to prayer for a sold out body of Christ – beginning with New Bethel Baptist Church

Matthew 19:13-30, Psalm 19:7, Ephesians 2:8-9, 2 Kings 5:5-13

Jesus has just taught on divorce

Jesus has just taught His disciples by commanding them to allow the children to come

He says “of such is the kingdom of heaven.”

Jesus then in continuing the theme of Kingdom People meets a man and explains Kingdom living

I. The Rich Young Ruler (Luke 18 identifies the man as a ruler) -the word indicates he was likely a synagogue ruler

We don’t know his authority, but we know he was a ruler therefore a devout religious person.

We can assume He was a worker in the synagogue

We can see His works had not satisfied him

→ Works do not satisfy or save

† In Ecclesiastes we read of Solomon and his riches, wisdom and travels. Nothing brought him the satisfaction he searched for. “All is vanity” he said.

Jesus proves the heart of the rich young man

Jesus tells him to keep the commandments

i. The commands quoted are dealing with fellow man

ii. Jesus obviously had knowledge of the man’s attitude

The Ruler proves the condition of Man

Man assumes falsely/the ruler thought he was good

i. Salvation assumptions

Earned – the ruler asks “what can I do?”

Man thinks he is good – he thinks others are bad

Man clings to his vices and his comforts

Payment – man can’t buy it. Christ has already paid for it. He owns it. He distributes it by one means, faith!!

Pilgrimage – the woman at the well was told about going to the mountains to worship. Christ taught her worship is in the heart.

II. Disciples

The Disciples also show mans condition

i. Doubt – see verse 25 “Who then can be saved?”

ii. Boastful – in attempts to justify after hearing the conversation with the ruler

III. Jesus Teaches About Salvation

Not by man’s design –

Not by man’s merit – Only one Good, the Father

i. The law – proves mans guilt

ii. Trust – man must trust God leaving all earthly comfort and hope. Only faith in Christ will save!

Close:

I am not asking you to go and sell your house, car and all your valuables to prove your love for Christ. The fact is we are only pilgrim’s passing through. We do not belong here permanently. As believers in Christ we are People of the Kingdom of Heaven. Though you are not required to sell all your belongings I wonder who would be willing to answer the call if God burdened you to go on the foreign mission field. Are you so attached to your stuff? Or are you sold our to Christ, ready to follow Him. Follow Him where? He is now seated at the right hand of God making intercession for us. We don’t follow Him only in service on earth. We follow Him to Heaven. After all He is our King and we are Kingdom People.

It is a shame that many follow the rich young ruler by denying Christ for the comfort of earthly goods that will certainly perish while forfieting eternal life!

When did you bow before God this week and actually say; “Lord I forgive _______________”?

1-4 are questions we can answer quickly with what seems to be a superior attitude. Questions 5 & 6 seem to always convict us. Why is that so? Our human nature stirs our self-righteous sinful attitudes causing us to be hypocrites. Jesus tells us to forgive. Seldom do we willingly and openly do so. We are sinful.

Most of us enjoy listening to messages that remind us of our status as forgiven. Praise God we are forgiven as believers in Christ! We enjoy hearing the brethren discuss our home in Heaven. When the preacher mentions the sins taking place in the gutters of the earth we give a resounding Amen. Too often when we hear the Word of God preached and the message is forgive those who trespass against us we leave with unrepentant hearts causing ourselves misery and unnecessary anguish.

While we were yet sinners Christ died for us. That is forgiveness. Jesus Christ lived the perfect example showing us how to forgive. Those who beat and crucified our Lord were no exception to Him. He said “Father forgive them they know not what they do” (Luke 23:34).

1) Who is forgiven by Jesus Christ?

Those who come by faith trusting in His sacrifice

2) Who should forgive others

All those forgiven by Christ

Ephesians 4:32 and be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you.

Note: Forgiveness does not override church discipline in the case of unrepentant sinners.

3) Who should we forgive?

Jesus forgave His murderers

Jesus forgave us while we were yet sinners

4) Who should know about a trespass against you?

First, you and the trespasser

Second, you and two or more witnesses

After one and two the church should know of and then deal with offenders

Premature information scars the testimony of a person who seeks forgiveness of offences.

Restoration should always be the goal

5) Misused verses – verses 19&20

a. These verses deal with the gathering together for the purpose of discipline

i. not for riches, not for physical health, not for personal agenda

6) Warning to all believers

Do not tell the rest of the church about your offender unless

You have gone to them – WITH THE INTENTIONS TO BE RESTORED!!

You have taken mature believers with you – WITH THE INTENTIONS TO BE RESTORED!!

Do not ask a preacher to preach on someone else’s sin unless you are willing to admit your own for the same purpose.

7) What are the consequences for not forgiving and not properly handling discipline?

Verses 21-35

Closing:

Who has trespassed against you?

Who have you told?

Does the offender even know they have offended you?

Now will you repent for offending God? Then forgive your brother who has trespassed against you?

As we begin our look into Matthew 18:10-20 some questions will help us see the need for a thorough study of the text.

Who do you think is the greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven?

Honest people find many hoping it will be them.

That is why Jesus began this teaching.

Who comes to mind when you think of someone missing? (gone astray)

We all know someone who is missing today.

We also know some who may be with us, but that person has fallen into sin.

What do you say about those who are missing or those who have fallen into sin?

Many like to begin speaking against the person.

What should you do concerning those who have gone astray?

Our own ignorance often leads us to sin.

What does Jesus say about the above questions?

The answers are in Matthew chapter 18.

v Question 5 should be the first question all believers ask before considering the others.

Too often we as Christian people (Covenant Community) are guilty of shooting our own or leaving them behind on the battlefield to die alone. God is not pleased with this behavior among the brethren. It is God’s will for believers to care for each other. It is God’s will for believers to be active in the spiritual growth of fellow believers. We must realize God not only desires for His Church to help one another in spiritual growth, but we are also expected to be participants in restoration measures regarding those who fall into sin.

God’s people are family. Families procreate birth, raise, nourish, correct and teach. How does this happen in the Family of God? Evangelism is the procreation process. The repentance of a lost sinner is the new “birth” of a child into God’s Family. We then become the caregivers to new Babes in Christ. It is our duty to nourish them. We do this with the sincere milk of the word. It should always be our goal to nourish them toward self sufficiency. We want them to learn to study, pray and serve as mature believers. Not only do we nourish children, but we also correct them when necessary. Correction is not punishment. It is correction. Correction is the process of turning someone back into the right direction. One important element must accompany correction. That element is teaching. If we do not teach we are not correcting. To correct is to teach them the right way verses the wrong way.

The Faults and Failures

You will Sin

Your family members will sin (the idea of laying a stumbling block for fellow believers)

What to do when it happens

Recognize sin as sin

See if the fallen Repent

Go to them privately if they don’t repent

Other people’s children:

“If my child did that I would………_______________________fill in the blank”

“Your child hit my little Johnny, What are you going do about it?”

Your Children:

“Oh, look how cute Johnny is taking up for himself”

“Well my Johnny didn’t mean to do that”

Consequences

You could gain your brother

You could lose a friend

What are the differences

Faithful Christians will see the Love in the communication

Tares, non-believers, will not repent and will be angry

Loss of a friend:

This friend may not believe. Losing a friend is better than being constantly tempted by non-believers

Gaining a Brother:

Restoration is the goal of the communication. If your brother repents He is restored into fellowship

Pastors cannot please everyone! Many would like to, but none accomplish this impossible task. Thom Rainer tells seminary students they will be just fine as long as they can be every where at all times and supernaturally know the needs of the people. Right! It is impossible. With the pressure on where does the pastor go to express his needs and thoughts.

Every pastor needs Godly friends. I have more than one. I thank God for my friends whom I can share my “real” thoughts with. No attempt to entertain, no need to hold back my strong desire to see things go in a particular direction and no worries that our conversations will be publicized.

I’m blessed! The church where I serve the people are real. They allow me to be real with them. They have never asked more of me than I can reasonably do. They are sensitive to my families needs. These are not platitudes. The truth is I serve what I believe to be the best church in the world.

Why do I say such good things about New Bethel Baptist Church Centre, Alabama? Several members of the church decided from day one to ask me how things are going. One in particular kept a check on how I liked serving among the congregation. I am often told by church leaders to let them know if I need any thing. Last Sunday I was reminded by the Chairman of the Deacons that “when we see your hands full we are here to take the load off”. Praise the Lord for fellow servants who are close enough to be friends.

If you don’t feel your church family is a body of like minded believers who are also friends I encourage you to take charge. Start looking for ways to be a friend. A person who knows how to make friends will be a person who has friends.

Matthew 6:33 but Seek ye first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness: and all these things shall be added unto you.

Matthew 22:37Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind.

Colossians 3:23 and whatsoever ye do, do [it] heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men;

What is the first thing you think of when you wake up? I hurt. I’m sleepy. I’m hungry. I don’t want to go to work. I don’t like my job. I don’t like the people at work. I forgot to pray. I don’t have time to read my Bible. See the focus in the first thoughts of the day? I-I-I. This is wrong if you are a Believer in Jesus Christ the Lord!

Every day is a day the Lord has made. We should rejoice and be glad in it. Why? Because we are afforded the opportunity to serve the risen Lord!

I.Seek Him in Our Personal Life (lay aside the sin that easily besets us, Hebrews 12:1)

a.Hunger for Righteousness/Drink from the fountain Christ, living water

b.Desire His increase and your personal decrease

i.this shows up in how well you serve

1.How well do you take orders? That is how you measure servant hood

» We should desire to study our Bible even if no one is looking or telling us to do so.

II.Seek Him in Our Prayer Life (thy kingdom come thy will be done, Matthew 6:10)

a.Who do you pray for first?

i.We should pray first for the Kingdom/the Saints/the Church

ii.Are the desires we ask for beneficial to the Church or us as individuals?

b.Do you pray for your enemies?

i.If not it is sin. (see Matthew 5:44)

III.Seek Him in Our Public Life (walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing being fruitful in all good works…,Colossians 1:10)

a.Desire to model the Christian life each time you go out in the public square

i.where do you go for leisure/recreation/fun

ii.where do you go for learning

iii.where do you eat

b.Are you willing to stand alone in public

IV.Seek Him in Our Mission (..whatever you do, do as unto the Lord…, Colossians 3:23)

a.Mission/Calling is not for personal gain

b.Your Job is Your mission field/Use it right

i.Glorify God on the job

1.Do your job right and to the best of your ability

When asked why you do so with sincere motive tell them the motive! For the Glory of God.

Religious leaders come from Jerusalem. The leaders were from the top. The dislike for Christ had grown continually among the Scribes and Pharisees, but it has now escalated to an anger which will lead to murder. The Pharisees come to Jesus with the desire to judge Him. They ask Him why He and His disciples eat without washing hands. This was indeed a traditional ceremonial washing of the elders of Israel. Jesus answers by question. Jesus asked the Pharisees “why do you not honor your father and mother?” The Pharisees were saying the things they withheld from their aging parents were being used for God, but Christ points out they are wrong. Jesus was breaking tradition; the Pharisees were breaking commands!

The traditions Jesus broke were no longer necessary. Hebrews 9 tells us that many traditions and rituals are no longer needed because the Old Testament rituals are fulfilled in Christ. Besides this many of the traditions were written by the Jews (from Ezra on) and added to the commandments. The former was a picture of the greater One to come. He was there in the midst of the Pharisees. They however missed the truth. Remember Peter also had a problem with similar issues even after Christ died and was resurrected. (Galatians 2:11-12). Paul strongly opposed Peter’s actions.

Too often today Christians both judge and are judged by the dos and don’ts of tradition. We shouldn’t overlook the importance of how we live and interact with culture. The fact we are free and have liberty does not give us a license to live sinful lives without concern. We will follow scripture if we desire to decrease while Christ increases in us. The scriptures teach us how to live, but we should live a Christian live as a result of Holy Ghost conviction and never with a Legalistic attitude. Comparing one’s self to another and pointing out short comings of others in pride is Legalism! Living spotless before God for His glory is pleasing to the Father!

I.Religious Leaders vs. Christ

a.Leaders Authority vs. the Authority of Christ

i.The Pharisees had ways to get out of following commands

1.They made up ceremonies and traditions to escape commands without the guilt. They could say Corbin to a parent and religious leaders would not hold them responsible for the command to honor father and mother.

2.The Pharisees allowed certain words to exempt a man from the law, but Christ said the words and actions are exactly what defile a person. “Out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks.”

II.God’s Word vs. Talmud

a.The ceremonies and traditions of the Pharisees and Scribes make up what we know today to be the Talmud.

i.The Pharisees looked to the traditional words as authority and overlooked the scriptures

ii.Jesus countered the leaders with scripture

1.He appealed to Isaiah 29:12 “hypocrites”

2.He appealed to Exodus 20:12 & 21:17 “Honor thy father and mother”

Psalm 138 tells us God has esteemed His word above His name, and nowhere in scripture did He put any other teaching or writing above His word. Anyone coming with another teaching is a false teacher!!

In a time where it seems anything goes in “evangelism” the church needs to focus on the Biblical view of Evangelism and Salvation. Richard Phillips has written “Jesus the Evangelist” in which he offers a clear view of Evangelism according to the book of John. Phillips does a great job of giving us a layout of evangelism according to Jesus. He covers issues ranging from principles of evangelism (chapter 1), the message of evangelism (beginning in chapter 3) and he shows us how Jesus put evangelism into practice (beginning in chapter 9). If you simply desire to know more about the biblical view of and how to practice evangelism the way Jesus did this book is a great resource.

Jesus the Evangelist is a good resource for pastors and teachers when covering the topic Biblical Evangelism. The book is written in a way that allows the teacher or preacher to outline the material. I recommend this book to all who want to know what Evangelism is according to scripture and to all who desire to practice Evangelism the way Jesus did.

If you have a suggestion on how we can make this site easier for you to navigate please let us know. “FREE SERMONS” is for you. Our desire is to glorify God and to help others do the same. We value your input. Simply use the comments section to share your thoughts.

If I were using an automobile assembly line in the early 1900’s and a problem arose who do you think I should call? I would want to talk to Henry Ford or Charles Sorensen. They put the program together. They know the details from start to finish. If something is out of place they can spot it. We can understand that kind of logic. Why would we not look to the creator of the earth when we are facing tragedies or dangerous situations involving the earth and the elements from and on it?

We were designed to need fresh provisions on a regular basis. If we are hungry who should we look to?

I.Casual Miracles = those who touch His garment

a.those who came to see the miracles not the miracle worker

i.They wanted healing, not a new life

1.Salvation brings forth new life

II.Compassionate Miracles

a.Jesus recognizes the hunger of His followers

i.Through a miracle He feeds them – (5 loaves & 2 fish)

1.He created us with needs.

2.He created the provisions to fill the need

a.He has all authority over His creation/the need and provision

b.Jesus sees the infirmities of people

i.

III.Comforting Miracles

a.Jesus’ authority over the wind and waves should comfort believers (the storm is His tool to shape our faith)

He said, “Be of good cheer”.

IV.Conforming Miracles / this only follows a transforming

a.verse 33 – They worshipped Him after the sea calmed

Close:

Mark tells us Jesus ordered the people in the desert to sit in groups. He organized the crowd. If we well imagine the scene we might see something wonderful concerning those who are following and trusting the Messiah.

Do you see the garden in the middle of the desert?

We are His garden. Inside us we hold the seed for the purpose of planting and reproducing our kind, (believers). That seed in us is the faith brought to us by the Holy Spirit. The seed is also the testimony of Jesus Christ, (the Word).

This world is a desert land and full of hungry people spiritually.

·Do you view this desert land as a place of ministry?

·Do you use the opportunity this immoral and lost world provides?

·Are you a hungry soul who like the disciples cannot feed yourself in this desert land?

oIf you are hungry Jesus is the one who can feed you with manna from Heaven. Look to Him.

oPeople knowing the church has expectations of them as servants of Christ

·Church Decisions

oCongregational

§Responsible for doctrine and practice

i.1 Thessalonians 5:21 / note the responsibility is on the whole (congregation)

ii.1 John 4:1 / note each believer is responsible to test the spirits

iii.Jude 1&3 / note all are called to contend for the faith that was delivered to the saints

a.this should naturally translate into doctrinal integrity for the church

iv.1 John is written to all ages of the church (all congregation) to know of and be watchful concerning false doctrine

Remember:

We need to know what we believe and why we believe it.

We need to know why we are where we are (church home).

We need to know what the Church believes as overall doctrine.

·This brings us tonight to Church Government. Why do we do things the way we do them?

·If we cannot back our decisions and processes with scripture we need to reconsider what we are doing!!

Psalm 111:10 The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom; all who follow his precepts have good understanding. To him belongs eternal praise.

Proverbs 1:7 The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and discipline.

Proverbs 9:10 “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.

A.Church Leadership:

a.Pastoral Leadership / Why do we have a Pastor?

i.Leads to question what are “His” responsibilities

b.Deacons / why do we have Deacons?

i.Leads to question what are “His” responsibilities

Note: the word used for performing the office of deacon is the same word used to describe what the angels did for Christ after the temptation in the wilderness. Matthew 4:11

Note: The responsibilities of both Pastor and Deacons are almost the same.

Note: Paul writes to the bishops (pastors) and deacons.

Hebrews 13:7 Remember them which have the rule over you, who have spoken unto you the word of God: whose faith follow, considering the end of [their] conversation.

Philippians 1:7 Paul and Timotheus, the servants of Jesus Christ, to all the saints in Christ Jesus which are at Philippi, with the bishops and deacons:

Philippians 1:27 Only let your conversation be as it becometh the gospel of Christ: that whether I come and see you, or else be absent, I may hear of your affairs, that ye stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel;

1.First we must ask; “How do we get Pastors and Deacons?”

Acts 6:5 And the saying pleased the whole multitude: and they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Ghost, and Philip, and Prochorus, and Nicanor, and Timon, and Parmenas, and Nicolas a proselyte of Antioch:

a.Congregational decision (look again at Titus 1:5)

b.Mature believers seek out a man to present to the church

i.pulpit committee = should be mature believers

2.Second we ask: “How should the congregation choose?”

a.Who will proclaim the gospel without reservation to us

i.this is the way to measure the pastoral care of a man

1.Truth leads to better things

2.Lies (soft preaching) leads to desperate people (spiritually empty)

I.Pastor (also worded bishop or elder in scripture)

a.Called of God

Romans 1:1 Paul, a servant of Jesus Christ, called [to be] an apostle, separated unto the gospel of God,

Matthew 25:32And before him shall be gathered all nations: and he shall separate them one from another, as a shepherd divideth [his] sheep from the goats:

b.Leads by Example (see 1 Peter 5:3)

i.Constant scriptural teaching/never wavering

ii.Constant warning (verbally) against wrong directions

1.Creates spiritual discernment for decisions of the church

II.Deacons (also worded as elders in scripture) see 1 Timothy 3

a.Able in the Word of God

1 Timothy 3:5 Holding the mystery of the faith in a pure conscience.

Note: Stephen was a deacon/What was Stephan doing when he was martyred?

b.Able to handle serving the people

i.Naturally this will demand the overseeing all business matters because all matters in the church pertain to serving the people as an act of serving Christ.

We must remind people of the power of our Lord. He is not limited by man. He was not able or unable to perform miracles simply because of man’s faith or the lack of. He can do what He wants when He wants without our permission. However, Jesus did choose not to do many miracles in response to the great unbelief of many of the people in Nazareth. He also did many miracles without mans request, faith or knowledge of ability.

·Mary did not ask for a child out of wedlock.

·Jesus fed the five thousand without being asked. The disciples didn’t even consider it an option 14:13-21

·Jesus approached the disciples by walking on the water without their knowledge 14:22-33

·The man with a withered hand did not asked to be healed, Jesus did so 12:13

Today’s happenings without asking:

·No one asks for a child with disabilities, but God allows it. In this great love is realized

·None of us ask for cancer, but many of us will get it. This produces selfless acts of care giving

·No one wants to see war in this world, but God allows it. Many give their lives for the multitudes

·None of us ask for chronic pain, but many of us have it. Testimonies of faith and perseverance

Even Paul had a thorn in the flesh he asked for removal of three times. (1 Cor. 12:7-9).

† The question we do ask is “WHY?”

† The result of such things is often UN belief!

→We trust good things are of God, but we doubt He can be in control of bad things in our finite lives.

John The Baptist Murdered Because of:

1.Pure Evil = The Evil hearts of those who kill Him

2.Pride = Herod is holding a drunken party and he will not be viewed as weak before the guests.

3.Debauchery = Herod was living in sin with his brother’s wife

I.The Seriousness of Preaching Christ

a.John’s message was one of sin and repentance

i.Herodias (the wife of Herod, was his brother’s wife)was angered by the message

1.John said to Herod “it is not lawful for you to marry Herodias”

a.Because the brother is still alive

Note: Herod and Herodias are among those mentioned in chap. 13 who will reject Christ.

II.The Separation of the True and the False Believers

a.John never denounced Christ = He did question, but never denounced

i.Jesus said He came to set mother and daughter, father and son at variance with one another. Matthew 10:35-36

b.John never compromised his message

i.The “influence” (fear) of worldly people upon him didn’t change his mind

III.Sin’s Consequences

a.Herod thought Jesus was John back from the dead

i.Antipas already had John killed

1.His conscience obviously brings the murder to mind

Galatians 6:7 Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.

Genesis 4:12 When thou tillest the ground, it shall not henceforth yield unto thee her strength; a fugitive and a vagabond shalt thou be in the earth.

Luke 11:51 From the blood of Abel unto the blood of Zacharias, which perished between the altar and the temple: verily I say unto you, It shall be required of this generation.

Jezebel suffered for having Naboth killed

2 Kings 9:35 And they went to bury her: but they found no more of her than the skull, and the feet, and the palms of [her] hands

The blood of our Lord on man’s hands

Matthew 23:34 Wherefore, behold, I send unto you prophets, and wise men, and scribes: and [some] of them ye shall kill and crucify; and [some] of them shall ye scourge in your synagogues, and persecute [them] from city to city:

Jesus warns of coming judgment on those who slay the righteous

Matthew 23:35 That upon you may come all the righteous blood shed upon the earth, from the blood of righteous Abel unto the blood of Zacharias son of Barachias, whom ye slew between the temple and the altar.

b.Sin eats away at the soul and eventually becomes visible to the people around us

IV.Selfless Servant hood

a.John’s life was consumed with preaching righteousness and preaching Christ

i.He didn’t have Church as a second choice

b.John did not fear for his life against the evil king.

i.John was willing to die for the cause

c.John didn’t ask Jesus to give him anything special, he simply baptized Him

i.John didn’t ask for wealth because he served him

ii.John didn’t ask for healthbecause he served him

iii.John didn’t ask for recognition in the temple for his preaching

1.many people will not serve if they don’t see a pay off in the future

Close:

What if Jesus didn’t promise Heaven, but was still God? Would you serve Him without the promise of Heaven?

What if someone never told you could be wealthy if you say and do the right things? Would you still serve Christ?

Do you really serve Him?

Have you heard the message of John the Baptist? “Behold the Lamb of God that takes away the sins of the world”

We find seven seal’s in the sixth chapter of Revelation. We also find four horsemen in the first four seals. Horses in scripture represent triumph, majesty, power and conquest. (See Rev. 19:11, Job 39:19-25, Proverbs 21:31). These riders represent forces and not necessarily men. Many debates go on concerning who the rider is on the first horse. On the surface we see seven, but inside these seven is contained many more judgments. The seventh seal contains seven trumpets which will bring about judgments. The trumpets are blown by angels who come forth to blow. The seven trumpets lead up to the seven bowls of God’s wrath.

The idea here is God is now beginning the process of wrapping up the things in and on earth. This time of judgment is the “beginning of the end”. Though many things happen here the most important thing to know is God is bringing about, once again, all He said He would.

Reading of these judgments should be enough to cause all men to run to the foot of the cross, but many refuse to believe in Christ. Whether one believes in the pre tribulation rapture or the post tribulation rapture Christ promises to care for His people during the tribulation. We take the position of the pre tribulation rapture of the church. God is now proving what Paul said in Romans 12:19 dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but [rather] give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance [is] mine; I will repay, saith the Lord.

I.First Seal

a.Who is the Rider = many ideas abound

i.some say anti-Christ

ii.some say Christ

b.What does he accomplish

i.peace = false peace

1.Beginning of Tribulation / Peace time 3.5 years

·he has a bow, but nowhere do we read of arrows / (long reaching effects)

·No blood is shed

2 Thessalonians 2:9-12 [Even him], whose coming is after the working of Satan with all power and signs and lying wonders, And with all deceivableness of unrighteousness in them that perish; because they received not the love of the truth, that they might be saved. And for this cause God shall send them strong delusion, that they should believe a lie: That they all might be damned who believed not the truth, but had pleasure in unrighteousness.

The New International Greek Testament Commentary on Revelation by G. K. Beale. Beg, borrow or get a member to gift it to you as an early Christmas present. It will be your most valuable tool when you leave chapter 3 – so you have some time. Beale is fair in evaluating all the views but keeps focused on the text and does a good job of offering solutions to problem texts.

Jesus performed three acts in Mathew 12. Each time the Pharisees made an attempt to discredit Christ as the Messiah. In doing so they prove their lack of discernment of the scriptures they use in their failed attempt. The Old Testament teaches the law. It also teaches of the coming of the Messiah. Observing the life, words and activities of Jesus would have proclaimed the deity of Christ if the Pharisees were discerning. The other thing to note in chapter 12 is how Christ withdrew in order to escape the anger of the Pharisees. It was not the appointed time of His death,

Jesus performed the duties of the law. He also performed the promised things the Messiah was promised to do.

1 Samuel 21; 4 and the priest answered David, and said, [There is] no common bread under mine hand, but there is hallowed bread; if the young men have kept themselves at least from women.

·Mercy is shown by God by providing bread for David and his army.

·Jesus is the High Priest.

Isaiah 42:6 I the LORD have called thee in righteousness, and will hold thine hand, and will keep thee, and give thee for a covenant of the people, for a light of the Gentiles; vs.7To open the blind eyes, to bring out the prisoners from the prison, [and] them that sit in darkness out of the prison house.

·Healing power is prophesied and now revealed

Matthew 4:10 then saith Jesus unto him, Get thee hence, Satan: for it is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve.

·Jesus tells Satan to get away because he is an offence to our Lord.

Discernment is very important when we read the scriptures. It is equally important when we teach the scriptures. It would be easy to lead an entire congregation astray due to a lack of discernment on behalf of the teaching pastor and the inability for the other spiritual leaders of the church to have little to no discernment. This is why we MUST preach the word in its entirety if we are to expect the church to understand who God is.

Too often people use a checklist of some kind to determine how they are doing with their religious desires. It is good for us to have goals and be aware of things we need to be working on. If we are not aware of the fact we cannot overcome evil or check our goals off without Christ’s work in our life we have a lack of discernment and will continue in defeat. Let us look to Christ first! If we check that off first the rest will come without such pain and suffering as we sometimes suffer in our attempt to accomplish righteousness.

1 Samuel 15:22 And Samuel said, Hath the LORD [as great] delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the LORD? Behold, to obeyisbetterthansacrifice, [and] to hearken than the fat of rams.

I.The Person Of

a.The Sabbath

i.God in the flesh = the Sabbath is the “The Lords Day”

1.set aside for the things of God

b.The Temple

i.Jesus is the dwelling place of God

1.God in the flesh = John 1:14

·When the earth is gone and all things are made new and eternity begins we will all be gathered in Christ for eternal worship and service to our God. This will be done in Christ.

·Our entrance into Heaven is in Christ

·Our righteousness is in Christ

II.The Purpose Of

a.The Sabbath

i.To worship the Holy God

1.because of who He is = If he never did a miracle He is still God!!

2.remembering His creation and work in the lives of His People

ii.For Gods people to grow in the Word and in Fellowship

1.see Hebrews 10:24-25

b.The Temple

i.A Place for God to meet corporately with His people

1.coming to church is an act of obedience to the commandments

2.place bringing a sense of reverence to our God

3.place where God’s Word is taught

a.The Word is front and center in the Temple (church)

Acts 13:44 And the next Sabbath day came almost the whole city together to hear the word of God.

ii.Jesus is in complete control of the Temple

John 2:19 Jesus answered and said unto them, Destroythistemple, and in three days I will raise it up.

Matthew 12:6 But I say unto you, that in this place is [one] greater than the temple

III.The People Of

a.The Sabbath

i.Those who have encountered the righteous Lord

1.Only an encounter with Him leads to worship and recognizing the Sabbath

b.The Temple

i.People “belonging” to the Lord

1.Saved and regenerate believers only have full privileges of church membership

2.Outsiders do not understand the things that go on in the church

a.the Holy Spirit gives understanding to the saved

Acts 13:26-27 Men [and] brethren, children of the stock of Abraham, and whosoever among you feareth God, to you is the word of this salvation sent. vs. 27 For they that dwell at Jerusalem, and their rulers, because they knew him not, nor yet the voices of the prophets which are read every Sabbath day, they have fulfilled [them] in condemning [him].

Closing:

When we think of Jesus do we think of Who He is?

When we seek Him do we seek to know Him or to get something from Him?

When you come to church do you come to worship the God of all creation? If not I urge you to repent today!

Vs. 1 And I saw in the right hand of him that sat on the throne a book written within and on the backside, sealed with seven seals.

1.The book was a scroll

2.Some believe this is the book “word” Daniel was told to close and seal (Daniel 12:4).

a.These things will not be understood until they have already come to pass

3.This book likely contains in it the will of God which is only known completely by Christ

4.The state of man in Adam’s day before the fall is in view as well. Things contained in the scroll could also be thought to tell of the fellowship of God with His creation, man. Because of the fall mankind no longer knows the Creator in the same way as the first Adam before the fall. Paul said, “ now we see through a glass darkly but then face to face we shall know even as we are known”.

Vs. 2,3 &4 And I saw a strong angel proclaiming with a loud voice, Who is worthy to open the book, and to loose the seals thereof? And no man in heaven, nor in earth, neither under the earth, was able to open the book, neither to look thereon. And I wept much, because no man was found worthy to open and to read the book, neither to look thereon.

1.The strong angel is not identified so we will not try to tell who it is.

2.The angel did have a loud voice. This is always used when our attention is commanded by Christ.

a.The message of the loud voice

i.Who is worthy? – None! None in earth or under the earth. This means no man, demon or angel is worthy to open the book. This leads to discouragement as we will see in John as he weeps.

ii.Who can open the seals? – No man!

b.None could open, but none could read or look inside either.

3.John wept over the current situation. He wondered , I’m sure, if anyone could know the will of God, the future of man and the place of the church in history.

Vs 5 And I beheld, and, lo, in the midst of the throne and of the four beasts, and in the midst of the elders, stood a Lamb as it had been slain, having seven horns and seven eyes, which are the seven Spirits of God sent forth into all the earth.

1.Hope. There is hope.

a.The awaited hope that the Jewish people and even some disciples hoped for when Christ was on earth is going to be recognized now.

Jesus has performed miracles by healing the afflictions of many. He has assembled the team of twelve disciples. Jesus is now sending the twelve out as more than observers. They will now be the men performing ministry.

The twelve will go out with nothing, but the disciples will be leaving with everything necessary to accomplish the task. One might ask “what does that mean”? Though they carried nothing the disciples were thoroughly equipped to proclaim the gospel message “The Kingdom of Heaven is at Hand”. Healing the sick, raising the dead, cleansing lepers and casting out demons accompanied the proclamation of the gospel.

We must note the context of these works performed by these particular men and the group they were commissioned to go to. These were twelve hand-picked men who witnessed the miracles of Christ and then given the power to replicate them while ministering to a select group, the Lost Sheep of the House of Israel. Many people often use this as a mandate for performing particular works, but this mandate was for twelve specific men. The place to look for our commission is Acts 1:8. This is the place where the church is commissioned.The Church is mandated to go to the entire world in contrast to the Apostles who were to go specifically to the Lost Sheep of the House of Israel.

As we look into the lives of the twelve Apostles we can find the Works of the Kingdom of Heaven as the main subject matter. The Apostles were working in the power of Jesus Himself. Without Christ these men could not have performed any miracle. The Lord is again the architect of the gospel. He is building the Kingdom of Heaven according to the plan set in place before the foundation of the world was laid. It is here we can witness the awesome power of God exercised through twelve unique men.

The Twelve

1.Simon Peter

2.Andrew

3.James

4.John

5.Philip

6.Bartholomew

7.Thomas

8.Matthew

9.James

10.Thaddeus

11.Simon the Zealot

12.Judas Iscariot

I.His Disciples-learners/Made into Apostles-delegates

a.He called them

b.He equipped them

i.Discipleship is part of the transformation process (transformed by the renewing of your mid).

II.His Authority

a.He gave them authority=they didn’t already have it

i.They marveled at their own works like any equipped believing disciple.

III.His Commands

a.He gave them specific tasks

i.Go nowhere among the Gentiles or Samaritans

ii.Go to the Lost Sheep of the House of Israel

1.Those belonging to the twelve tribes of Israel

iii.Go and proclaim the Kingdom of Heaven is at Hand

iv.Heal the sick

v.Raise the Dead

vi.Cleanse the Lepers

vii.Go with nothing in your purse/this will change for the Church

viii.No bag, shoes or sandals

ix.Find the worthy of the town you enter

x.Greet the family (house) when you enter

1.If the family is unworthy shake the dust off your feet/this is a disciple only command. Paul later dusted his feet of the Jews and went to the Gentiles, but Paul is counted among the Apostles.

→All of these are miracles and practices performed by our Lord.

IV.His Purpose

a.He came to seek and save the Lost

i.He came to restore the fellowship between fallen Israel and the Father

Who do you look up to? Most people have someone in their life to look up to for inspiration, guidance and help in the time of need. With that said history reveals some great people in the eyes of man through human perception. No matter who you look up to history will have recorded some unfavorable things in their life. At mans best he still does not measure up to the greatest man to walk this earth!

A look into history will reveal a man who no other can match. Others may have more money, some will have more fame, but still they cannot compare to this man. Bigger houses have certainly been had by others, for this man owned no house. Popularity among the highly esteemed is a goal and comfort for some; however our subject today was despised and rejected by the elite. He still is unmatched by any other.

Who is this man who was despised, rejected, poor and murdered? Who is the one with all the suffering and yet He is unmatched? It is the Lord Jesus Christ! He is the King of Kings, Lord of Lords and God incarnate. No other can match Him in any way.

I.His Authority

a.His Word – whatever He says must come to pass

i.The paralytic walked

ii.The tax collector followed

iii.A dead girl raised

iv.The issue of blood healed

v.The blind see

vi.The mute speak

vii.Many diseases healed

II.His Authenticity

a.His Works

i.Many are born, but only Christ was born of a virgin

ii.Many teach, but none do so with great authority as Christ; even at twelve yrs.

iii.Many had authority over men, but Christ had authority even over demons

iv.Many did judge, but only Christ can forgive sins.

III.His Authorization

a.His Workers

i.Jesus calls workers to the work

1.through the Word and Spirit workers are moved

2.His workers are called to proclaim His gospel

IV.His Autocracy

a.His Rule

i.He will rule over all things

Close:

Though He had no place to lay His head He owns all of Heaven. He was despised and rejected by the elite, but He is accepted by The Father in Heaven and will be worshipped throughout eternity. He suffered at the hand of man, but He brings comfort to the burdened and heavy laden. He is the all time, undisputed Lord. As a man He was likely slim in build and He was not great to look at. In the end all the world will feel the weight of His judgment and His people will admire H

1.Sickness is random to our perception. This reminds us none are exempt from human relationship to Adam.

2.Our relationship to Adam reminds us we are separated from God because of sin.

ii.Reminder of our inability to help ourselves.

1.Man cannot save himself.

2.Man cannot come to God without help.

II.A Faithful People

a.How? What makes them stand out?

i.Recognize the need to reach out to others

ii.Recognize their inability to help the sick man

iii.Recognize who can help the sick man

1.They physically went to the man

2.They physically brought him to Jesus

III.A Powerful Lord

a.Who? Who is this man?

i.Son of Man with power to forgive sins.

1.Son of man means He is God come in the flesh

2.He has power to forgive sins. This is why He came in the flesh.

a.No person but Christ can forgive our sins. He took our punishment. God’s wrath was poured out on Him.

IV.A Glorified Lord (see vs. 8)

a.What? What brought glory to the Father in this text?

i.The sick man brought by faithful servants to a powerful Lord!

ii.Jesus did His work for God’s glory.

1.It worked! The people glorified God.

2.In this context the people knew who worked in the sick man by making him sick.

3.In this context the onlookers realized God’s work in burdening the faithful.

4.In this context Christ again accomplished the will of the Father.

Close:

Are you sick with sin? Do you know someone who is sick with sin? Will you be faithful to witness the power of God with a sick person? If you are the sick person The Father brought you to this place today to hear the salvation call. Will you yield? You have been alerted to the power of Jesus Christ. Will you glorify the Father today?

Another year has come to a close. Some feel as if it rushed by. Do you? The truth is we all have 365 days in a year. The difference in your 365 days and mine is how we choose to fill them. All of us fill our days with both good and bad things. With that said we can look back in review and determine the direction we must take in the New Year.

How will you launch the New Year? Yes, it is your prerogative. God gives us the privilege of reasoning and choosing. If you will consider the things done in 2008 and notice the good and efficient things you can help yourself in 2009. By recognizing the good and bad you can determine what you do’s and what not to do’s.

If we will be honest with ourselves we can make our life more effective for Christ in the New Year. We cannot overlook the importance of the Holy Spirit in this process. Beginning to pray and ask God to show you the good and the bad in your life is where you start. The seven churches in Revelation chapters 2 & 3 gives a firm foundation for knowing Christ will reveal the good and the bad. After asking and getting an answer we must take them to heart and repent when necessary and rejoice when allowed.

I.Revisit and Reflect

a.God’s Word – the beginning of knowing Good and bad!!

i.How much time did you spend in the Word in 2008?

ii.How did the Word affect your life in 2008? – If you didn’t spend time in the Word you will not have noticeable affects from the Word.

iii.How did the Word affect our church in 2008?

1.How did you study the Word?

a.Sunday school?

b.Bible study (personal and group)?

c.Did the sermons of 2008 help you?

b.Good and Bad in 2008

i.How did you react to circumstances?

ii.How often did you pray to, praise and thank God for all things in 2008?

II.Realize or Recognize

a.Good actions

i.How did your actions affect the Kingdom of Heaven? – If you can’t think of anything that did move to the next portion of the message.

ii.How did your actions support the spreading of the gospel?

iii.How did your actions help other people learn of Christ?

b.Blunders

i.How did you hinder the spreading of the gospel in 2008?

ii.How did you sin? – This is a very personal thing between you and God

1.All have sinned and come short of the glory of God.

a.Does that sin still haunt your soul?

b.Are you continuing in that sin?

III.Repent

a.Surrender to God through Christ Jesus

b.Leave your sins behind and move forward in Christ

i.Have you Repented – The Holy Spirit calls us to repentance.

1.Are you living a life representing the Christ who saved you?

IV.Resolve

a.Be committed to Christ first

b.Be committed to your family

c.Be committed to the Church – The church is universal, but we serve through the ministry God does through New Bethel. You might say you don’t have to go to church. If you are in “The Church” you will want to be in church.

d.Be committed to Bible Study and Prayer.

e.Be committed to listening to and studying the Sunday school lessons and sermons.

i.Take notes if necessary

ii.Ask the teacher or preacher for a copy of any notes they have.

Closing;

This message is simple. It should touch every soul. What will you do with it?

Will you purpose to seek God’s will in the New Year?

Will you purpose to learn God’s word in the New Year?

Will you purpose to help others know Christ and the Word of God in the New Year?

Why the Shepherds in the field? And furthermore, Why them first? The Shepherds were viewed by the people of Israel as common thieves, they were not allowed to give testimony in courts and they could not take part in the ceremonial sacrifice. All of this was due to their job. They were required to be with the sheep at all times.

Great significance is found in the fact they were some of the first to be told of Jesus’ birth. One, they were keeping watch over the sacrificial lamb and two; they were least likely to be first. God was telling these shepherds they would no longer have to raise a sacrificial lamb. The Lamb of God was lying in the manger. He would be the final sacrifice and would take away the sins of the people. The people of Israel thought when the Messiah would come He would be a political leader and would relieve political oppression. The angels declare Jesus to be a Savior, not just a leader, (The Wycliffe Bible Commentary, pp.1032-1033).

It is also important that we notice the angels surrounding the Shepherds, the praise they gave to Christ and their going away praising Him and telling others about Him. These men might have been least among the town folk but to God they were just the type men He wanted; humble and faithful.

We like the Shepherds need not look for another sacrifice. The final sacrifice has been made for us. When we see Jesus as our propitiation we see Him as the Shepherds did. We cannot save ourselves. We are the least among all because we are sinners who have transgressed the law. God has chosen to reveal Himself to us just as He chose to reveal Himself to the Shepherds.

I.Vs 10 – GOOD TIDINGS

Good tidings = preaching the message. In the New Testament it is always referring to the preaching of the death, burial and resurrection. (See the Strongest Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance pages 1211 and 1613).

Great Joy

1.What is the joy?

·There is now hope for mankind.

·God has come to offer Himself to sinful man.

ATTN: Mankind had reached a point where there was none good no not one. We are all sinners with no hope. Through the Child born we have hope of salvation.

To all people

1.Who are all people?

·Any who come to Jesus Christ through faith in Him as Lord and Savior!

Note: By Faith alone, in Christ alone & by Grace!

·There are no boundaries or prejudices toward any who come by faith.

ATTN: There are many people in today’s world that are prejudiced toward some people. With Christ there is no prejudice. All who come by faith are welcomed into His Salvation.

▬Many people misinterpret the verse to say peace would be forever on earth now. This is only true for those who know Jesus Christ personally as Savior. Peace was on earth, but the peace was Christ and in Christ. The only way to access this peace is to accept Christ and allow Him to live in you through His Holy Spirit.

It is also important to note real peace will be forever on earth after the second coming and after the New Heaven and New Earth are set up by God.

▬Good will toward men is often misinterpreted to mean man would have good will toward one another, but it is obvious this is not so. The good will spoken of is that of God toward us. In His good will He offered to us His only Son as a sacrifice for our sins. For those who accept this gift you will know of His good will toward men.

We should praise and thank God always. Furthermore we should share the message of the hope that is in us.15But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear

Closing

The reason for the season

The only hope we have is in Jesus and for that He we should praise Him!

Not long ago Congressman Keith Ellison was elected by the people of Minnesota. Ellison is the first Muslim to be elected to the United States Congress. Mr. Ellison says he will not take the oath of office by placing his hand on the Bible, but on the Koran. For those who are not aware of the facts, the Koran is the Muslim Bible.

As Americans we should feel a sense of betrayal by this Congressman. The Bible is the book that our fundamental values and laws are based on. If we do not wake up and realize that congressman Ellison will vote the same way our forefathers did we may be in for future surprises. Our forefathers wrote our constitution base on biblical principles and values. Ellison will vote on Koran values, which hold no respect for those who do not believe and worship as Muslims.

This great nation was founded on the idea that people should be able to worship God freely. Our citizens have fought and died for this right not only on domestic soil, but on foreign soil as well. Our sons and daughters spill their blood and die for the rights of all mankind, not only our kinsman. The one book, and its teachings, that compel a nation to do such heroic acts is the Holy Bible. If we do not boldly teach the fact that the Holy Bible that is so disrespected is the very book that gives its opponents the right to oppose it we are failing in our individual civic duty.

We are living in a time when the very book that has brought freedom to a people is the very book that is being attacked. It is time that we send a message to the entire world that we will not tolerate the attack on the Holy Scriptures. For those who truly believe that God has chosen His Scriptures to reveal Himself to man, we must allow God to use these perilous times to glorify Himself through us as His Church.

THE BIBLE

I. THE CHOSEN BOOK (see Psalm 138;2) -thy word above thy name-

A. CHOSEN BY GOD

1. The source by which He reveals Himself to man

2. The source of mans instruction in godly living

3. The source of mans witnessing tools

4. The source of mans Christian teachings, (moral teachings)

5. The source by which God reveals spiritual things to His people

II. THE COMPANION BOOK (see Jeremiah 1;4)- the word of the Lord came unto me, saying-

A. COMPLIMENTED BY THE HOLY SPIRIT

Ø No, I am not saying the Bible is to be read with any other book

Ø Yes, I am saying there is another component to reading and understanding the Bible. (see Mark 4;10-12)

1.The Holy Spirit is the companion who brings understanding

2.The Holy Spirit is who inspired the writing of the Bible

• III. THE COMPELLING BOOK (ROMANS 1;16)

A. CALLING TO SALVATION

1.The source that reveals our sin

2.The source that shows the way to Salvation

B. CONVICTION IN THE BELIEVER

1.The source of warning in wrongdoing

The source of conversion to Holy living

C. CORRECTION FOR THE BELIEVER

1.The source of new direction

D. CAUSE OF GOOD DEEDS

1.The provoking to help the needy

2.The provoking to free those bound

3.The provoking to witness to the lost

4.The provoking to love for one another

No other book in the history of man has been attacked as the Bible has. As believers it is our duty to proclaim the gospel message in the Bible. In proclaiming the gospel message we must not forget the freewill of the hearer. While considering the freewill of the hearer we must also not allow anyone to take away the foundation of our great nation, the Bible.

In most cases we as Christians think we should stay out of politics because of the famous statement, separation of church and state. The separation was to keep government from imposing a state sanctioned religion. This very freedom is one that is afforded Americans because of the teachings in the Holy Scriptures.

Let us always be willing to stand up and fight for the freedom that we have because of the Holy Bible. This very book is one that many have given their life that all may hold a copy in their hand.

Examples of scripture attack;

1. In China Bibles are not allowed

2. In Iraq Christians are having to flee because of torture and tyranny (Al. Baptist., November 16, 2006, compiled from Wire Service)

4. British airways tell Christian employee she cannot wear a cross while any other faith can have open displays of faith (Al. Baptist, November 16, 2006, compiled from Wire Services)

5. Abdul Rahman, a Christian convert from Afghanistan has been protected in Italy. Afghanistan officials want him back for prosecution and execution for converting to Christianity (Al. Baptist, November 16, 2006, compiled from Wire Services)

John 8:31-34
FreedomIn the 16th century a man called Erasmus wrote a treatise to rebuke the great reformer Martin Luther. Erasmus’ work was titled “On the Freedom of the Will.” Martin Luther would write a rebuttal in book form. In the introduction Luther highlights the eloquent words and wisdom of Erasmus. Luther goes on to say that Erasmus’ great wisdom and eloquence of speech is like serving dung on a silver platter. From that statement Luther claims to be simple in knowledge although helped by the Holy Spirit and the writings of the Apostle Paul. Luther writes the bondage of the will to highlight true freedom comes to those bound to Scripture. With that in mind we will examine together the 8th chapter in the Gospel according to John. I contend John speaks to us about true freedom. Hear what John says.

Freedom is ;

I. A Challenge

Textual guide- “If” you continue in my word then are ye “my” disciples.

• Two opposing worlds.

We are by nature challenged by true freedom. We are at odds with true freedom.

Paul is writing to Christian believers in Rome with a desire to visit them. Paul also writes as a faithful disciple of Christ to fellow disciples of Christ. With the former in mind I would like to draw your attention to the command of our Lord Jesus Christ and remind you the Great Commission directs disciples to disciple others. Discipleship is the fundamental duty of all Christians. We all are to be disciples and we all are to make disciples. In the early days of the Christian Church the same dangers we face still today would arise to threaten the contentment of believers and the continuation of the faith. If “The Faith” will continue the truth must be known and repeated at all times. If a preacher begins to sound as though he has only one message regardless of the Bible text he reads you can rejoice if the one message always comes down to the fact we are saved by grace alone through faith alone in Jesus Christ alone as set forth in Scripture alone for the glory of God alone. Paul begins this letter in a way to establish a hearing. Paul is writing to disciple the disciples in Rome. This man Paul will open by establishing some facts about himself that will show himself worthy to be heard on the matters he will discuss. As Paul writes we can note he is teaching believers who they are based on Whose they are.
Now let us begin to study this letter I like to call the observation deck of all the Bible. A study of Romans will serve us as a platform to view the path leading to this point in time and the path leading to the finish line. In a maze the observation deck allows you to view your path to the deck and you can see the path to the exit point. When our lives cause our vision of the finish to fade I encourage you always return to Romans and read it again. You will be reminded where you were brought from and where you are being directed. The observation deck will allow you to see the finish line that sometimes seems as if were only an imagination. Because we can see fulfilled promises behind us we trust the promises that lie ahead.
We come now to the observation deck, Romans. We hear from our tour guide Paul. Let’s hear him.
I. Paul’s Introduction
A. Who He Is
This is Paul. Paul was once called Saul. Saul was a tremendous persecutor of the church. Paul is now a preacher to and for the church. Paul is a man who met Jesus on the road to Damascus and was forever changed. As we move through this letter we will appreciate the knowledge of Paul due to his Jewish background. He really is a master of Jewish religion and from that background Paul will skillfully teach us who we are as born again followers of Jesus Christ.
II. Paul’s Authentication
A. Whose He Is
Paul is a servant of Jesus Christ called to be an Apostle.
Paul belongs to the Lord Jesus Christ. The words here indicate to us Paul is a slave for Christ. In the Jewish system of life and law a bond slave would agree to serve for a period of time. When that time was completed the slave could go free or he could choose to remain a slave for life in which he freely gave his life to serve the master. Paul tells us here he is a man under the direction of the Master. Paul is a servant of Jesus Christ.
III. Paul’s Separation
A. What He Is
Paul is a man separated for the purpose of spreading the gospel of God which God had promised before and brought about through His Son Jesus Christ. Paul is a chosen preacher and teacher of Scripture. Paul would sometimes work in manual labor to support himself but his primary reason for living was to preach and teach the Gospel according to Scripture.
Close:
With this introduction Paul can move forward with his pen writing with Apostolic authority and readers can read trusting the source of Paul’s writing to be Divine Inspiration. That is the power behind the promises of old and Paul’s exposition afresh. I am glad God separated Paul unto the Gospel. We all owe a debt of gratitude in part to Paul. Because of Paul we have the blueprint of faithful Gospel missions to all the word and we have the Gospel in Gentile lands because of Paul’s servant life for Christ.

Luke 2:1-20
I. Revealed Savior
angels were sent to announce the arrival of the savior
II. Responsive Shepherds
the shepherds went to see the baby Jesus
III. Repeated Sayings
the shepherds went away telling what they heard and saw

It is hard to find a preacher who will preach a sermon that is first Bible based and second patriotic. Dr. Craig Conner does that. below are some ways to watch and listen to the sermon Dr. Conner delivered on Sunday June 30, 2013 leading up to our nations celebration of July 4th.

What is Christmas? December 22, 2008 sermon at New Bethel Baptist Church Centre, Alabama

Isaiah 7:14 & John 1:14

It is Christmas time! People are running to and fro. Family reunions are taking place, family quarrels will be rekindled, new family members will be introduced and gifts will be swapped. Many will try to out give the others. Some will try to give equal value gifts. Others will sit back and watch as all this takes place. The truth is in the midst of all the chaos, depression, tears, reunions, hugs, laughter and gifts most people will overlook what is really taking place.

A remembrance of the coming of the Lord!! That is what is taking place. If no one buys you a gift you have already been sent a package wrapped in swaddling clothes. If you have new family members to meet or not this time is to remember the introduction of God as man to the world. If you have family quarrels to think of you can know the coming of the Lord set in motion the violence of man toward the living God. If you are one who will face Christmas alone for the first time this year you can now reflect on Mary who gave birth to the Lord and 33 years later watched Him die a cruel death.

It should be a prayer of every born again believer for people to remember what Christmas is about. It is about the coming of the Lord to earth in human form. We become depressed, anxious and irritable when we approach Christmas from our selfish perception. Christmas will only be the joyful occasion it should when we remember what it really is.

WHAT IS CHRISTMAS?

I.Bethlehem’s History (Micah 5:2 & Genesis 35:16-19)

a.Chosen by God (Micah 5:2)

i.prophecy fulfilled

ii.Small town – almost unknown and insignificant. Note; In Genesis Rachel gave birth to Jacobs son Benjamin (i.e. son of the right hand). She died in Ephratah, Bethlehem. The son of Israel’s right hand was born in Bethlehem and so was the son of God’s right hand born in Bethlehem.

→After bringing together the scribes and priest’s King Herod knew where the Messiah was to be born. Only through Old Testament prophecy was this information revealed.

→Bethlehem was least likely among towns for Christ’s birth. The Shepherds were least likely to be the first to know of His birth. Many whom Christ healed were least likely for His physical touch. (Consider the leper). Christ came to those whom others bypass.

II.Beginning of Grace (John 1:17 & Romans 3:23-25)

a.Chosen Propitiation

i.Christ is a substitute – He was born to die. He takes the place of sinners on the cross. The pain He bore was our pain taken by Christ.

b.Confirmed God’s love (John 3:16).

c.Grace is giving us freedom from eternal punishment

i.Freedom from sin through the power of the Holy Spirit and the washing by the Word.

III.Birth of the Messiah (Isaiah 7:14, Isaiah 9:6 & Matthew 26:63,64)

a.God with us

i.Light pierced darkness = As God spoke in the beginning and light pierced darkness, so did Christ come as the light of men when the world was dark and lost in sin

→ He was born and laid in a manger. This was not His beginning! We consider our beginning to be at conception and it is realized at birth. Christ always has been and always will be. This is true of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit.

b.His Birth Bids for decision. His convicting power drives the person to choose Christ or reject Christ.

→ at the time of His birth Herod was compelled to send for the Christ child. His purpose was not to worship Him. The men who came to locate the Child were sent for ill purposes, but when they found Him they worshipped Him!

What will you do with the Christ Child??

Close:

What is Christmas?

Christmas is God with us!
Christmas gets labeled a lot of ways. Some say Christmas is for the children. Others say Christmas is about family. Many think Christmas is about getting.

What if you have no children, family, cannot give and will not receive a gift. Is Christmas nonexistent for you?